By looking deeply, the meditation practitioner gains insight or wisdom, prajna. Insight has the power to liberate us from our own suffering and bondage. In the process of meditation, fetters are undone; internal blocks of suffering such as resentment, fear, anger, despair, and hatred are transformed; relationships with humans and nature become easier; freedom and joy can penetrate us. We become aware of what is inside and around us; we are fresher and more alive in our daily lives. As we become freer and happier, we cease to act in ways that make others suffer, and we are able to bring about change in ourselves and help others around us become free. — Thich Nhat Hanh
Oceans of Vows is a full concert length piece of music composed by Jazz percussionist Alex Cline in honor of his teacher, Thich Nhat Hanh. The music draws its inspiration from four poems by Thich Nhat Hanh, as well as excerpts from the Avatamsaka Sutra. It is a musical meditation on interbeing, and a beautiful expression of love and appreciation for Thich Nhat Hanh and the lineage of enlightened masters going back to the Buddha.
Listen to musical excerpts and insights from composer Alex Cline in this video about the making of his CD: Oceans of Vows.
“Therefore you know
that as long as you continue to breathe,
I continue to be in you.”
One of the poems by Thich Nhat Hanh that inspired Oceans of Vows. Thich Nhat Hanh is a global-known Buddhist teacher, best-selling author, poet, artist and peace activist. His key teachings are on mindfulness, and how if we can learn to live in the present moment, we can create peace for ourselves and the world.