The silence of the holy name
is a quietness that is loud
it takes the breath of one who chants
it is the quiet strength of a crowd
It moves within to cover the sound
of the marching band of the mind
it ends the talk of the chattering birds
of cares and anxieties we find
The silence of the holy name
is a sound that makes us still
so that nothing of the outer world
can try our hearts to fill
It is silent to the world of names,
of designation and of roles
It is quiet still to the bustling sounds
of ambitious material goals
The silence of the holy name
as we quietly chant a round
Or loudly sing with dancing beat
is no ordinary material sound
It is silent just as if
we keep our voice from the world
renouncing all and being quiet
seeking spiritual life to unfurl
Chant! Chant! the sages say
Chant with your heart and mind
Chant with an eager spirit of love
This silence we must find
Chant, chant the teachings teach
Chant to the silence strong
Break the grip of loneliness and pain
Chant until despair is gone
And when we do we will see
a whole new life unfold
The silence of the holy name
is loud, and big and bold.
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