Psalms of the Sisters XLIV: Sakulā

While yet I dwelt as matron in the house,
I heard a Brother setting forth the Norm.
I SAW that Norm, the Pure, the Passionless,
Track to Nibbana, past decease and birth.

Thereat I left my daughter, left my son,
I left my treasures and my stores of grain;
I called for robes and razors, cut my hair,
And gat me forth into the homeless life.

And first as novice, virtuous and keen
To cultivate the upward mounting Way,
I cast out lust and with it all ill-will,
And therewith, one by one, the deadly Drugs.

Then to the Bhikkhunī of ripening power
Rose in a vision mem'ries of the past.
Limpid and clear the mystic vistas grew,
Expanding by persistent exercise.

Act, speech and thought I saw as not myself,
Children of cause, fleeting, impermanent.
And now, with every poisonous Drug cast out,
Cool and serene I see Nibbana's peace.