What Monk Poems Are

Monk poems are contemplative in origin.  

They arise from persistent focus and 

consistent intent then issue in some 

nonresistant notice relative to 

matters of spirit correlation.

They are sutra-like in their making, at best 

rendering concise but comprehensive, 

if cryptic, sayings with content certain, 

when integrally understood by those 

concerned with spirit.

As such monk poems point to the monkhood

of us all, our best self.  The monk within us all 

is the best self of each striving to be 

free, so faithful as to be able to face all 

with clarity: compassion: charity. 

Best self is tested each day by the spur of 

every moment calling us to accept with grace 

whatever rises, no matter the turn of events.  

The best self, if not perfect, is always 

on the way to perfection.

Deep

down

the pit

the soul

abide

a light

drilling

the dark

deeper

still

Monk self accepts itself as it is, as it is not.