What does the Nembutsu mean, or a Hail Mary?

[richard meyers]

As with each passing moment we
ourselves step closer to the edge
Out of the realm of doubt and
chaos came a word of hope.

We know this down to our toes
With outstretched hands we reach for
something that consoles that comforts
makes normal the stark
fact of our abrupt cessation.

Somehow the square is circled
corners rounded
Where fear and doubt lurked
Faith moves inside a life that is not
absurd ultimately
How could it be?
Look at a rose
A hawthorn shield-bug
A summer sunrise
Across the room at one you love.

Namo Amida Bu beside you
The Salva Regina on your lips
Water in the desert
Warm blanket in the winter cold.

Stars overhead embroidered night
Speak to us of mercy.

[Ben Ross]

Thank you for this poem. I love "Stars overhead embroidered night/ Speak to us of mercy." I experience your poem as a beautiful weaving of Christian, Pureland, and Pagan experience of love's immanence. Namo Amida Bu, Christ be with you,

Ben

[Susthama]

hmm, beautiful