A Poetic Reflection on 9/11: Zen and the War on Terror

As another September 11th comes and goes and the agents of fear and hatred attempt to rejuvenate the so-called War on Terror by rekindling the bitter memories of that tragic day for their ulterior motives, it is time, perhaps, for some critical, poetic reflection:

(Note that it is best to view this by clicking on the "printer-friendly" option, so you can see the poem on one page.)

Zen and the War on Terror

by Mac McKinney

Embracing fear, we deepen illusion,

turning from the Dharma.

*

Obsessing death, we cling to ego,

impaled upon the Wheel.

*

Collecting hurts, we cultivate grievances,

A sealed bottle upon the fire:

*

Bursting, we scald the Other.

Samsara blisters, karma burns:

 1  |  2  |  3  |  4