Words with Thorns

Yutang Lin

Roses, even though beautiful
Guru taught, not suitable for offering to Buddhas, only because of its thorns
Unless the thorns are removed first

Words, even though unintentional
Listeners will naturally feel that they aim at them
If words caused others to feel uncomfortable, or even hurt
Unintended could not serve as excuses for the speaker

In the human realm with so many diversified views
It is hardly enough to pave smooth paths by soft expressions
How could one still employ words with thorns, adding animosity for no reasons
So arrogant and self-assured, and yet without self-awareness of such self-deceit

In conversations
Don't let words rush forth carelessly
Prune away the thorns first

Written in Chinese and translated on October 26, 2007
El Cerrito, California

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