LIFE???

A poem by Buddhadasa Bhikkhu

What is life, after all? I think -
It's a most bizarre madness of nature,
Of elements confusedly concocting body-mind
Still enslaved to instinctual appetites and tastes.

For what, then, does life exist? I opine -
It's for madness fulfillment in Samsara's end
With body calmed, mind cooled, realising Nibbana,
As the ending of dukkha in every possible form.

And what do we do with this life? I believe -
We just stop going crazy over worldly deliciousness,
Releasing it by harmonising the eight path factors,
Each day and every night perfect in Nature's Way.

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Buddhadasa Bhikkhu, December 2003
Translated into English by Santikaro, and published by Sukkhapab Jai.