Nembutsu

I am a link in Amida's golden chain of love that stretches around the world. I will keep my link bright and strong.

I will be kind and gentle to every living thing and protect all who are weaker than myself.

I will think pure and beautiful thoughts, say pure and beautiful words, and do pure and beautiful deeds.

May every link in Amida's golden chain of love be bright and strong, and may we all attain perfect peace.

This verse teaches us that we do not practice just for ourselves. We are part of a chain of love. We trust that whatever good we do in life contributes to something bigger than ourselves. It stretches round the world. Each of us is part of the community of all sentient beings. What we do in life may help to cultivate love and peace and kindness, or it may stir up animosity and bitterness. When the winds of bitterness are blowing in the world, it takes faith to remain calm and not be corrupted.