remaining too long in one place our attraction
to loved ones upsets us; we're tossed in its wake.
the flames of our anger towards those who annoy us
consume what good merit we've gained in the past.
the darkness of close-minded thought dims our outlook,
we lose vivid sight of what's right and what's wrong.
we must give up our home and set forth from our country —
the sons of the buddhas all practice this way.