One of the most learned and highly trained American-born lamas in the Tibetan Dzogchen tradition. He is a meditation teacher and author.
“Blessed are those who stay indoors,
For they have protected others.
Blessed are the unemployed and self-employed,
For their need of help is great.
Blessed are the corner shopkeepers,
For they are purveyors of scarce things.
Blessed are the delivery drivers and the postal workers,
For they are the bringers of essential things.
Blessed are the hospital workers, the ambulance crews,
The doctors, the nurses, the care assistants, and the cleaners,
For they stand between us and the grave,
And blessing is surely theirs.
Blessed are the checkout workers,
For they have patience and fortitude in the face of overwork and frustration.
Blessed are the refuse collectors,
For they will see hope despite the mountains of waste.
Blessed are the teachers,
For they remain steadfast and constant in disturbing times.
Blessed are the spiritual leaders:
For they are a comforting presence in a hurting world.
Blessed are the single parents,
For they are coping alone with their responsibilities and there is no respite.
Blessed are those who are alone,
For they shall be beloved.
Blessed are the bereaved, for whom the worst has already happened.
They shall be comforted.
Blessed are those who are isolated with their abusers
For one day, we pray, they will know safety.
Blessed are all during this time who have pure hearts:
All who still hunger and thirst for justice;
All who work for peace and who model mercy.
May you know comfort.
May you know calm.
And may you feel loved.”
~ Adapted from the original text by Jayne Manfredi