"Gassho to Amida" is a simple gatha written for Dharma School children in the hope that they will understand the meaning of the words. This gatha can be chanted to the tune of the Junirai (Ekoji Dharma School Service Book).
Namu Amida Butsu
I recite Amida's Name.
With deep joy and gratitude
I gassho to Amida.
Trees and grasses and flowers
All grow in His Compassion.
His Light shines throughout the world.
I gassho to Amida.
Flowers bloom and flowers fall;
From the seeds sprout new flowers.
This is the truth unchanging.
I gassho to Amida.
Springtime brings the happy birds,
Their songs all praise Amida.
I join them in Nembutsu.
I gassho to Amida.
When I call Amida's Name,
It's Amida calling me.
His voice and my voice are one.
I gassho to Amida.
When I'm lonely I recite
Namu Amida Butsu.
Then I feel him take my hand.
I gassho to Amida.
Nembutsu in work and play,
Everyday with Amida,
Every moment filled with light.
I gassho to Amida.
Remember the Golden Chain,
"Kindness to all living things."
I will follow this Teaching.
I gassho to Amida.
In the clear bright morning sun,
In the fading light of day,
In the darkness of the night.
I gassho to Amida.
Namu Amida Butsu,
I live in His Compassion.
His great power guides my life.
I gassho to Amida.
© 2008 Ekoji Buddhist Temple