Thus Spoke Gautama Buddha

I consider the positions of kings and rulers
as that of dust motes.

I observe treasures of gold and gems
as so many bricks and pebbles.

I look upon the finest silken robes
as tattered rags.

I see myriad worlds of the universe
as small seeds of fruit,
and the greatest lake in India
as a drop of oil on my foot.

I perceive the teachings of the world
to be the illusion of magicians.

I discern the highest conception of emancipation
as a golden brocade in a dream,
and view the holy path of the enlightened ones
as flowers appearing in one’s eyes.

I see meditation as a pillar of a mountain,
Nirvana as a nightmare of daytime.

I look upon the judgment of right and wrong
as the serpentine dance of a dragon,
and the rise and fall of beliefs
as but traces left by the four seasons.