I just finished reading the book, A Chant to Soothe Wild Elephants: A Memoir by Jaed Coffin. A touching memoir about what we all are, at one point or another, searching for – the meaning and purpose of our life – the search for enlightenment. His writing is full of gritty truth and self reflection. A wonderful read.

Included in the book is a translation of a beautiful poem, a chant to soothe wild elephants that were once living in the forest. They led a happy and peaceful life until one day they were captured by the king’s hunters and taken to the palace to become part of the royal herd. The elephants, as one can only imagine, were not happy with their new arrangement. They stomped and thrashed, trying to escape. The only thing that could calm them was this special prayer, chanted by the monks of the kingdom.

Wild elephants, roped and captured for good purpose
You will be well raised and cared for.

May you feel no rage or sorrow
Do not wail for your kin.

Do not long for sylvan bliss or lush green groves
Or the company of the wilderness.

Do not pine for the sweet scent of your mates
Or the fragrance of the nocturnal blossoms.

Walk on with resolution until you have come to the palace gates
And do not think to follow your footprints back into the forest.

Through the palace flow streams where you can bathe and play
There is red lotus and sweet young grass.

Wherever you walk there will be broad and even paths
Lined with coconut and sugar palm trees.

Give up your kicking, fighting, and thrashing about
Soothe your vicious temper.

Once you are dutiful and valiant in battle
You will be well fed and content.

Stirrups will hang from your neck, a rug will be draped over your back,
You will be glorious and graceful as you amble along.

My life, my existence in New York City sometimes feels like that of these poor, captured elephants. I too feel as if I am trying to adjust to a strange life surrounded by cold concrete and hollow people, even though I have been living here for 4.5 years now. Although, I enjoy this seemingly sad prayer, it does nothing to calm my thoughts of escape.