There is the traditional Japanese custom
of dotting one eye on a Daruma (达摩) doll,
and placing it visibly as a reminder
of a goal to be accomplished.
When it has be accomplished,
the other eye is dotted,
with another doll used
for a new reminder.
His frowning sternness reminds
of the seriousness of the goal.
His rotund infallibility reminds
of getting right back up if toppled.
An eye dotted is like
an eye opened with a clear resolution.
Another eye dotted is like
being fully awakened, with realisation confirmed.
Having a firm vow
is already ’half’ the ‘battle’ won.
Just keep the eye open on the prize,
to stay focused and progress unwaveringly.
Having an unshakable aspiration
is already ‘half’-awakened.
After giving rise to aspiration (发愿),
keep fulfilling the practice (行) for full awakening.
