What the Buddha taught
By M. M.
Incarcerated people 
Prison Poetry 
Jun 18, 2011 
In my mind a sad and painful battle was fought
Until I learned what the Buddha taught.
The Buddha, the Dharma, and the Sangha I hold these things dear,
Within The Triple Gem I have nothing to worry or fear.
No longer do I have a qualm or quarrel;
Instead, I live my life pure and moral.
“Everything is suffering,” the Buddha once said.
So, drive those ill thoughts out of your head.
May all sentient beings have peace and tranquility.
May they have a heart that beats and eyes that see.
So break the cycle of rebirth and clear your mind,
And leave all attachments and suffering behind.
Incarcerated people
Many incarcerated people from all over the United States correspond with Venerable Thubten Chodron and monastics from Sravasti Abbey. They offer great insights into how they are applying the Dharma and striving to be of benefit to themselves and others in even the most difficult of situations.
