The Base

the eyes are a deep ocean,
with whirlpools and violent winds,
and shadows beneath the surface
and sea monsters deep within.
my boat is sailing in mindfulness,
I vow to hold the tiller firmly
so that I do not drown in an ocean of form.
using my conscious breath,
I am guarding my eyes for my protection and yours.
so that today continues to be a beautiful day,
and tomorrow, we still have each other.
—Thich Nhat Hanh