We are travelling a spiritual highway. Our precepts are like safety belts – upholding the core of our humanity with moral restraints that serve as both compass and anchor. They also act like brakes on our Dhamma vehicle, safeguarding us through the wilderness of the world while grounding the mind in an integrity of presence. With pure awareness, we have a stethoscope of the mind, steering and balancing us joyfully on the path so that we can wake up out of the darkness. We carry the Buddha in our hearts like an imperishable lamp, a supremely compassionate parent, our wise and formidable shepherd to help us overcome every hardship. Yes, we’re in self-drive – selfless – crossing to the far shore, Nibbana.  SIMT annual retreat, Chapin Mill, Rochester, May 28, 2023