My body, thus, and all my good besides, And all my merits gained and to be gained, I give them all away withholding nothing To bring about the benefit of beings.
ShantidevaAll the harm, fear, and suffering in the world are caused by attachment to the self: Why should I hold on to this great demon?
ShantidevaAs long as space abides and as long as the world abides, so long may I abide, destroying the sufferings of the world.
ShantidevaUnruly beings are as unlimited as space They cannot possibly all be overcome, But if I overcome thoughts of anger alone This will be equivalent to vanquishing all foes. Where would I possibly find enough leather With which to cover the surface of the earth? But (wearing) leather just on the soles of my shoes Is equivalent to covering the earth with it. Likewise it is not possible for me To restrain the external course of things; But should I restrain this mind of mine What would be the need to restrain all else?
Shantideva