Gathas

Gathas are short verses that help us practice mindfulness in our daily activities. A gatha can open and deepen our experience of simple acts which we often take for granted. When we focus our mind on a gatha, we return to ourselves and become more aware of each action. When the gatha ends, we continue our activity with heightened awareness.

As we turn on the water faucet we can look deeply and see how precious the water is. We remember not to waste a single drop because there are so many people in the world who don’t even have enough to drink. While brushing our teeth we can make a vow to use loving speech. Before turning on the engine of our car, we can prepare for a safe journey by reciting the gatha for starting the car:

Before starting the car
I know where I am going.
The car and I are one,
if the car goes fast, I go fast.

The gatha brings our mind and body together. With a calm and clear mind, fully aware of the activities of our body, we are less likely to get into a car accident.  Gathas are nourishment for our mind, giving us peace, calmness and joy which we can share with others. They help us to bring the uninterrupted practice of meditation into every part of our day. There are many gathas available in our Chanting Book.

Do not miss :

28 March 2024 - 7:30 : Méditation du matin
28 March 2024 - 19:00 : Thursday evening meditation
29 March 2024 - 7:30 : Méditation du matin
31 March 2024 - 8:00 : Méditation du dimanche matin
01 April 2024 - 7:30 : Méditation du matin
01 April 2024 - 19:00 : Méditation du lundi soir
02 April 2024 - 7:30 : Méditation du matin
02 April 2024 - 19:00 : MPC Book Club
03 April 2024 - 7:30 : Méditation du matin
03 April 2024 - 14:00 : Groupe de méditation Ste-Mary-IPCAM
Do not lose yourself in the past; do not lose yourself in the future; do not get caught in your anger, worries, or fears. Come back to the present moment, and touch life deeply. This is mindfulness.
- Thich Nhat Hanh