LAST TRIP TO SWAYUMBANATH STUPA
Hiding in corners
Vermilion daubed stupas
Simple roadside shrines
Garbage strewn and fetid
Last walk to Swayumbanath.
Seek Buddha's blessing
The gold thunderbolt
Awaits at the top of steep stairs
Bestowing power
The inner shrine glows
Bodhisattva's peaceful smile
Mountains fade from view
Chill winds blowing
Faintly tinkling temple bells
Flickering oil lamps
The All Seeing Eyes
Loom mysterious and golden
Contain all unity
Golden hued and gleaming
Bedecked with garlands peaceful
Bodhisattva smiles
Visceral drumming
Monks chanting, cymbals clashing
Stupa shines golden
His Eyes are piercing
Gazing in all directions
Bestowing blessings
- michael epstein
10-28-03