The Precious Gem - A Poem by Thich Nhat Hanh

Precious gems are everywhere in the cosmos and inside of every one of us.

I want to offer a handful to you, my dear friend.

Yes, this morning, I want to offer a handful to you,

A handful of diamonds that glow from morning to evening.

Each minute of our daily life is a diamond

That contains Sky and Earth, Sunshine and River.

We only need to breathe gently for the miracle to be revealed:

Birds singing, flowers blooming.

Here is the blue sky, here is the white cloud floating,

Your lovely look, your beautiful smile.

All these are contained in one jewel.

You who are the richest person on Earth

And behave like a destitute son,

Please come back to your heritage.

Let us offer each other happiness

And learn to dwell in the present moment.

Let us cherish life in our two arms

And let go of our forgetfulness and despair.
- Thich Nhat Hanh