OHS 10th Anniversary Poem by Dianne Pietila


Goodness gracious sakes alive.
The “buzz” around the sangha hive
Is that a Be-in is happening at Open Heart
And all Thay’s friends will joyfully take part.

It’s tea with Thay -- Just you and I
And we will also honor with glee
All others with whom we inter-be.

It’s a day when we can celebrate
Our sweet, wise leader and soulmate.
Whom we honor for his steadfastedness
And seeming foreverlastedness.

I’m grateful, too, for our facilitators.
Such loving, innovative inspirators.
You are so devoted and professional --
Maybe more than some of our Washington congressional.

Open Heart is a place where we can be free,
To not think or worry but just simply be.

In our dharma talk we know we can say
Whatever we’re feeling on a particular day.
We can cry, laugh and give voice
To all we fear, hope or rejoice.

Even dark secrets we’ve thought we must keep.
We can share in the light and bring out of the deep.
Without judgment, we feel safe to unbury
Those dread thoughts we’ve long had to carry.

But today is a day to laugh, smile & giggle,
Let’s sing, let’s dance, and maybe even wiggle.
Let’s raise our teacups and toast our presenters --
With special kudos to our forever mentor.

And following the lead of our dear, wise Thay
Let’s all breathe deeply and release with a sigh.
Of course remembering all the while
The Thai trademark: that sweet half-smile.


- Dianne Pietila