Ven Thích Trừng Sỹ Ven. Thích Pháp Nhãn
POEMS ON LEARNING FROM THE VIRTUES OF NATURE
As we know, families should set aside some time each day to help children learn short poems in both Vietnamese and English. When children are introduced to Buddha Dharma and guided in putting its teachings into practice from an early age, they can more easily understand and remember the teachings and develop good habits.
As the Vietnamese saying goes, “Bend the bamboo while it is still young.” In this way, parents and older siblings can become caring and effective teachers for the children in their families. We should not wait until the bamboo has grown old to bend it, as doing so would be much more difficult. This saying also reminds us of how the Buddha guided his young son, Rāhula, with gentleness and patience, helping him gradually develop good character and cultivate virtuous qualities.
We wish every family continued success and much joy in educating their children. Whenever families have more time to spend together and learn as a family, they can gently guide children in discovering valuable lessons from nature through poems in both Vietnamese and English. In this way, children can develop their language skills while cultivating good qualities and learning meaningful lessons for life.
Aspering to learn from the virtues of THE EARTH
Embracing all things, great and small,
With patience and compassion for all.
Supporting life across the land,
Nurturing all with a gentle hand.
Meaning: Learning from the virtues of the Earth means cultivating tolerance, equality, and non-discrimination. The Earth silently embraces, supports, and nurtures all living beings without distinction, whether near or far, rich or poor, or high or low in social standing. Following the example of the Earth, we learn to cultivate compassion, love, respect, and a willingness to help others. We also develop humility, patience, and steadfastness, contributing to harmonious families, a peaceful society, and a more peaceful world.
Aspering to learn from the virtues of WATER
Flowing freely, letting worries go,
Washing obstacles away as we flow.
The practitioner, serene and free,
Lives in peace and tranquility.
Meaning: Learning from the virtues of water means cultivating generosity and compassion, letting go of afflictions, and overcoming life’s obstacles. Through this practice, we learn to maintain a calm and free mind, live with peace and joy, and share love and kindness with everyone.
Aspering to learn from the virtues of FIRE
Burn away afflictions and pain,
Transform sorrow, peace to gain.
May body and mind dwell in peace,
May inner calm and joy increase.
Meaning: Fire symbolizes light, strength, and the power of transformation. Learning from the virtues of fire, we aspire to develop clear wisdom to recognize and transform sorrow and afflictions, including those deeply rooted in the mind. Through practicing the Buddha Dharma, cultivating mindfulness, and developing wisdom, we gradually overcome afflictions and prevent them from controlling our speech, actions, and behavior. In this way, we cultivate a pure, peaceful, joyful, and liberated way of life while bringing happiness and well-being to our families and those around us.
Aspering to learn from the virtues of WIND
Carrying virtue far and wide,
Its fragrance spreads on every side.
Though obstacles may block our way,
They cannot lead our hearts astray.
Meaning: Learning from the virtues of wind means spreading virtue, compassion, and goodness to everyone. Even when facing obstacles, we remain steadfast in our confidence, persevere in our practice, and cultivate wholesome qualities, helping bring peace and happiness to all.
Aspering to learn from the virtues of SPRING
Fresh and joyful, cool and bright,
May body and mind grow strong and light.
May health and vitality renew,
And abundant life force shine through.
Meaning: Spring symbolizes renewal, vitality, and hope. Learning from the virtues of spring, we aspire to nurture a healthy body and mind, maintain a joyful smile, practice the True Dharma every day, and cherish our spiritual practice as a precious gift to ourselves and others. Taking refuge in the Triple Gem and learning and practicing the Buddha’s teachings together, we contribute to building peaceful and happy families, schools, and society, grounded in mindfulness, compassion, and wisdom.
Aspering to learn from the virtues of SUMMER
Nurturing love and care,
With zeal and warmth to share.
May hearts burn bright with zest,
And brotherhood bring joy and rest.
Meaning: Summer symbolizes warmth, vitality, and abundant energy. Learning from the virtues of summer, we aspire to nurture love and care, practice compassion, and show genuine concern for others. In this way, family bonds grow stronger, families become happier, and everyone learns to love, support, and care for one another with kindness and heartfelt connection.
Aspering to learn from the virtues of AUTUMN
With steadfast effort, day by day,
We practice on the Noble Way.
As wisdom grows and skills mature,
We leave the stagnant pond for sure.
Meaning: Autumn reminds us to strive diligently and persevere on the path of Buddhist learning and practice. Through diligent practice of the Buddha Dharma, we gradually overcome ignorance, develop wisdom, transform delusion, and move toward awakening. In this way, we cultivate peace and happiness in our lives and contribute to the well-being of others.
Aspering to learn from the virtues of WINTER
Stay mindful, let no laziness take flight,
Practice with diligence and all your might.
With mindfulness, we calmly make our way,
At ease and peaceful, come what may.
Meaning: Winter reminds us to be diligent, devoted, and persevering on the path of Buddhist learning and practice. We learn to remain steadfast in the face of adversity, avoid carelessness, and make good use of our precious time. Learning from the virtues of winter, we aspire to practice the Buddha Dharma diligently, encourage and support one another, and progress together on the path of transforming body and mind. Through this practice, each of us can cultivate inner freedom, nurture compassion, and spread love and kindness to our families, friends, and all people.
Aspering to learn from the virtues of THE EAST
Shining warmly, spreading light,
Wisdom dawns to guide us right.
May we help all beings find
Peace and freedom of the mind.
Meaning: The East symbolizes light, hope, and auspicious new beginnings. Learning from the virtues of the East, we aspire to develop wisdom, nurture compassion, and share wholesome values with everyone. The light of wisdom helps us discern right from wrong, dispel delusion, and live with greater mindfulness and awareness in every moment of our lives. Through practicing the Buddha Dharma, we contribute to our own and others’ progress toward enlightenment and help build peaceful, harmonious, and happy families and societies.
Aspering to learn from the virtues of THE WEST
Reflect deeply every day,
As life slowly fades away.
Life is brief, time passes by,
Practice now, don’t let time fly.
Meaning: The West symbolizes contemplation and reflection, reminding us of the impermanent nature of life. Learning from the virtues of the West, we aspire to contemplate regularly the changes taking place in both body and mind, recognizing that time passes quickly and human life is finite. By deeply understanding impermanence, we learn to cherish every moment, avoid carelessness and procrastination in our practice, and diligently perform good deeds, speak kind words, and cultivate wholesome thoughts to benefit ourselves and others. Therefore, each of us should practice the Buddha Dharma diligently, starting today, cultivate mindfulness, develop wisdom, and progress toward a life of peace, well-being, and liberation.
Aspering to learn from the virtues of THE SOUTH
Diligent in all we do,
With mindful thoughts and words sincere and true.
Let greed and craving cease to grow,
And work to let afflictions go.
Meaning: The South reminds us to be diligent, hardworking, and responsible in all our endeavors. Learning from the virtues of the South, we aspire to cultivate wholesome conduct in body, speech, and mind, engage in wholesome actions, speak truthfully and kindly, and cultivate wholesome thoughts. At the same time, we practice letting go of greed, reducing afflictions, and transforming unwholesome habits. Through diligent practice of the Buddha Dharma, we develop compassion and wisdom, live responsibly, and contribute to the peace, well-being, and happiness of ourselves and others.
Aspering to learn from the virtues of THE NORTH
Honor our parents with love and care,
Help with housework and gladly share.
Keep our home tidy, fresh, and bright,
Clean, cool, and pleasant—a joyful sight.
Meaning: The North reminds us of filial piety, personal cultivation, and our responsibilities toward our families. Learning from the virtues of the North, we aspire to always honor, love, and care for our parents; continually pursue learning and develop wisdom; nurture loving-kindness; and keep our minds pure and clear as a mirror. At the same time, we learn to care for one another, share responsibilities, and work together to build a harmonious, happy home filled with love.
ASPIRING TO LEARN FROM THE VIRTUES OF THE UPPER DIRECTION
With steadfast hearts, we learn and grow,
Toward higher goals, our spirits flow.
The Triple Gem lights up our way,
And guides us on each passing day.
Meaning: The direction above reminds us to aspire to noble ideals, diligently learn, and practice the Buddha Dharma every day. Learning from these virtues, we aspire to take refuge in the Triple Gem, maintain unwavering faith and steadfast commitment to our spiritual path, and practice diligently to develop wisdom, purify body and mind, and cultivate wholesome qualities. Through this practice, we become increasingly mindful and peaceful, contribute to building a pure and harmonious Buddhist practice community, and bring benefit to all.
Aspering to learn from the virtues of THE LOWER DIRECTION
Let loving-kindness reach far and wide,
With joy, let learning be our guide.
May we practice, grow, and care,
And build a homeland rich and fair.
Meaning: The lower Direction reminds us to cultivate loving-kindness, live in harmony with others, and fulfill our responsibilities toward them. Learning from these virtues, we aspire to study and practice the Buddha Dharma diligently, nurture love and compassion, and work together to build happy families and a peaceful society, contributing to the continued well-being and prosperity of our homeland.
Aspering to learn from the virtues of THE FOREST
Keep the forests fresh and green,
Make the Earth a lovely scene.
May all people live in peace,
May joy and harmony increase.
Meaning: Forests provide shade, help regulate the climate, protect the environment, and sustain life for countless living beings. Learning from the virtues of the forest, we aspire to protect and nurture others and bring benefits to all. Together, we strive to preserve forests and nature, helping make our homeland increasingly beautiful and peaceful. Through these practices, we learn to live responsibly, cultivate loving-kindness, share with others, and contribute to the well-being of our communities, so that all may enjoy greater peace, joy, and happiness.
Aspering to learn from the virtues of THE MOUNTAIN
Steadfast and peaceful, calm and strong,
With patience to keep moving on.
Keep doing good throughout life’s way,
And brighten every passing day.
Meaning: The towering mountain, standing majestically beneath the sky, symbolizes stability, steadfastness, and an unwavering spirit amid life’s changes. Learning from the virtues of the mountain, we aspire to strengthen our determination, cultivate perseverance and patience, and practice the Buddha Dharma diligently each day. Through studying and practicing the Buddha’s True Dharma, we gradually develop wisdom, transform our afflictions, maintain a calm and steady mind, and live with greater peace, joy, and happiness, thereby benefiting ourselves and others.
Aspering to learn from the virtues of THE RIVER
Flowing gently through the land,
Nourishing fields with a loving hand.
May flowers bloom and fruits abound,
Bringing peace and joy all around.
Meaning: Learning from the virtues of the river, we aspire to live compassionately, serve others, and bring benefits to all. Just as a river quietly nourishes the fields, each of us can help sustain life, spread joy, and cultivate happiness for ourselves and others.
Aspering to learn from the virtues of THE OCEAN
Vast and equal, deep and wide,
With wisdom and compassion as our guide.
May awakened hearts selflessly share,
And bring peace and joy to all everywhere.
Meaning: The vast and deep ocean embraces all living beings, symbolizing inclusiveness, equality, and a spirit free from discrimination. Learning from the virtues of the ocean, monastics aspire to cultivate compassion, develop wisdom, dedicate themselves to the welfare of the many, serve all sentient beings, and contribute to the peace, well-being, and happiness of all.
Aspering to learn from the virtues of THE SUN
May wisdom shine so bright,
Filling our hearts with light.
Dispel the darkness far and wide,
Let wisdom brighten life’s every side.
Meaning: The sun symbolizes light, wisdom, and the power to illuminate the world. Learning from the virtues of the sun, we aspire to study and practice the Buddha Dharma diligently, cultivate clear and discerning wisdom, transform ignorance and afflictions, and illuminate the path to enlightenment. Through these efforts, we hope to bring peace, joy, and happiness to ourselves and others.
Aspering to learn from the virtues of THE MOON
Shining gently through the night,
Bathing Earth in silver light.
Wisdom and compassion shine,
Bringing peace to humankind.
Meaning: Learning from the virtues of the moon, we aspire to cultivate compassion, develop wisdom, and maintain a pure, gentle, and peaceful mind. Wherever we may be, we strive to spread a soothing sense of calm and bring joy, loving-kindness, and warmth to everyone.
Aspering to learn from the virtues of THE STARS
May wisdom shine with starlight bright,
And guide our minds toward what is right.
Transform afflictions, let them cease,
Know our true selves and live in peace.
Meaning: The countless stars shining in the vast sky symbolize the light of wisdom illuminating our inner world. Learning from the virtues of the stars, we aspire to cultivate mindfulness and clear awareness, regularly contemplate our body and mind, recognize and transform afflictions, and see clearly the selfless nature of all phenomena. Through these practices, we nurture inner peace and freedom, living mindfully with peace and joy in each present moment.
Aspering to learn from the virtues of THE CLOUDS
Gentle as clouds that drift and sway,
Finding peace along the way.
May joy be found wherever we roam,
And rest in peace, right here at home.
Meaning: Clouds drifting freely across the blue sky symbolize freedom, serenity, gentleness, and a mind free from attachment. Learning from the virtues of the clouds, we aspire to maintain a peaceful and joyful mind, live with ease and mindfulness, and free ourselves from the bonds of afflictions. Wherever we may be, we aspire to spread peace and happiness, nurture loving-kindness, and bring benefit to all.
Aspering to learn from the virtues of THE RAIN
Sow seeds of loving-kindness with care,
Let wisdom and compassion bear
Sweet fruits that nourish all around,
Bringing peace wherever rain falls down.
Meaning: Rain falls, refreshing the earth and helping seeds sprout, symbolizing compassion, wisdom, and nourishment. Learning from the virtues of the rain, we aspire to sow wholesome seeds and nurture wisdom and loving-kindness, cultivating peace and happiness within ourselves and spreading joy and tranquility everywhere. Through this poem, we are reminded to live compassionately, continue learning and practicing the Buddha Dharma, and share our goodness with others, serving and benefiting the many in our daily lives.
Aspering to learn from the virtues of THE DEW
Dew reminds us life can change,
Nothing in this world will stay.
May we practice every day,
And share our love along the way.
Meaning: The morning dew resting on a branch is delicate and fleeting, symbolizing the impermanent nature of life. It reminds us to cherish our time, diligently practice the Buddha Dharma, and remain mindful and aware in every present moment. Learning from the virtues of the dew, we aspire to cultivate compassion, sow wholesome seeds, and develop wisdom to illuminate the mind, transform afflictions, and bring peace, joy, and happiness to ourselves and others.
Aspering to learn from the virtues of THE SUN
May wisdom shine with radiant light,
And banish darkness from our sight.
May the awakened mind shine through,
And guide our deeds in all we do.
Meaning: Sunlight symbolizes the light of wisdom, illuminating the world and dispelling the darkness of ignorance. Learning from the virtues of the sun, we aspire to diligently practice the Buddha Dharma, develop wisdom, nurture the Bodhi mind, and spread compassion and loving-kindness to all. Through these practices, we contribute to transforming suffering and bringing peace, joy, and happiness to ourselves and others.
Aspering to learn from the virtues of THUNDER
Thunder roars, dispelling night,
Breaking ignorance with might.
Through practice, wisdom will arise,
And lead us toward awakening’s prize.
Meaning: Thunder symbolizes the power to shatter the darkness of ignorance. Learning from the virtues of thunder, we aspire to practice diligently, develop wisdom to illuminate our inner world, transform afflictions, and cultivate wholesome qualities. Through diligent practice, we gradually move toward awakening, live with peace and inner freedom, and contribute to bringing joy and happiness to the world.
Aspering to learn from the virtues of GRASS
Grass grows freely everywhere,
Serving all with loving care.
May we make life bright and fair,
Spreading goodness everywhere.
Meaning: Green grass grows everywhere, helping make life more vibrant and beautiful. Learning from the virtues of grass, we aspire to live in harmony and unity, actively engage in serving others, and dedicate ourselves wholeheartedly to the well-being of all, contributing to a peaceful and happy life for everyone. The poem uses simple language and conveys a clear, meaningful message. It embodies the spirit of humility, harmony, active engagement, and selfless service. This version is suitable for inclusion in the collection Aspiring to Learn from the Virtues of Nature.
Aspering to learn from the virtues of TREES
We practice daily, come what may,
And bloom and bear fruit along the way.
May Earth grow greener, bright, and fair,
Through wholesome deeds and loving care.
Meaning: The tree symbolizes enduring vitality, growth, and a spirit of selfless service. Learning from the virtues of the tree, we aspire to practice diligently each day, cultivate wisdom, serve others with humility, and perform wholesome deeds. Just as a tree blossoms and bears fruit, we strive to benefit others, contribute to making the world a more beautiful place, and nurture peace, joy, and happiness for all.
Aspering to learn from the virtues of THE FLOWER
May virtue bloom and fragrance spread,
With gentle words and kindness said.
May loving words bring joy and cheer,
And bless each home, both far and near.
Meaning: The flower symbolizes virtue, gentle speech, and a beautiful way of living. Learning from the virtues of the flower, we aspire to cultivate wholesome qualities, practice loving speech, speak sincerely, and share love and kindness with everyone. Just as a flower spreads its fragrance, we strive to let our kind words and wholesome actions enrich the world and bring peace, joy, and happiness to every home.
Aspering to learn from the virtues of THE LEAF
Green and fresh when spring draws near,
Golden leaves when fall is here.
Seasons change and pass away,
All things fade and change each day.
Meaning: Green leaves welcome the spring sunshine, while golden leaves reflect the changing seasons, reminding us of the impermanent nature of life. Learning from the virtues of the leaf, we aspire to practice diligently, apply the Buddha Dharma in our daily lives, cultivate compassion, and spread love and kindness far and wide.
Aspering to learn from the virtues of THE FRUIT
May wisdom ripen, bright and clear,
And fill the heart with truth sincere.
May gifts of love bless humankind,
With diligence and peace of mind.
Meaning: The fruit symbolizes the wholesome results of planting, nurturing, and cultivating. Learning from the virtues of the fruit, we aspire to practice diligently, awaken the mind to enlightenment, cultivate compassion, and put love into action. We also aspire to dedicate the goodness gained through learning, practice, and personal transformation to serving humanity and illuminating the path toward peace, happiness, and awakening for all sentient beings.
Compassion Song
My sisters, I am here for you
Everybody is very happy
Many in one, we’re living on the earth
Very healthy, we live so peacefully.
My brothers, I am here for you
Everybody is very happy
Many in one, we are same family
Very happy, we sing songs peacefully.
CONCLUSION
The poems in “Aspiring to Learn from the Virtues of Nature” draw upon familiar images from nature to convey profound lessons on ethics, character, and the path of Buddhist practice. Each image carries its own meaning, reminding us to cultivate compassion, develop wisdom, nurture wholesome virtues, and live responsibly.
Through these short, simple, clear, and easy-to-remember verses, children can gradually learn and embrace these wholesome values from an early age. This is also a meaningful and engaging educational resource that helps parents, grandparents, and older brothers and sisters guide children in learning both Vietnamese and English while applying the Buddha’s teachings to their daily lives. What matters most is not simply memorizing the poems, but understanding their meaning, putting the teachings into practice, and transforming oneself through each lesson.
Nurtured by love, mindfulness, and wisdom, children will gradually develop wholesome character and learn to love, respect, and help others.
May these poems become a bridge connecting families, schools, and Dharma centers in the shared mission of promoting moral education, nurturing the human spirit, and guiding people toward the values of truth, goodness, and beauty.
May we all learn from the virtues of nature, practice the True Dharma, cultivate compassion, and develop wisdom, thereby contributing to happy families, a peaceful society, and a harmonious world.
By Ven. Thích Trừng Sỹ
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