Back to the Start

With the passage of time, it is commonplace for freshness of spirit to fade and for apathy and inertia to set in. When that happens, new growth and development cease. The way to overcome apathy is to return to one’s starting point.
—Daisaku Ikeda
[The New Human Revolution, Vol. 23, “The Future” chapter]

One key teaching in the Lotus Sutra is the idea of “eternal Buddha-nature” within all beings. Even when we feel lost, apathetic, or stuck in our own inertia, our innate potential for enlightenment remains unchanged. The Sutra encourages practitioners to return to this inner source of wisdom, or “starting point.” This is symbolized in the stories of disciples and bodhisattvas who face challenges but, through perseverance and a return to their original faith and determination, attain Buddhahood.

Furthermore, in Chapter 3, the Parable of the Burning House, the father (representing the Buddha) draws his children away from danger (symbolizing ignorance and apathy) by reminding them of their greater potential and destiny. Similarly, Ikeda’s message highlights that when we lose our way, returning to our original inspiration can help reignite our passion and growth, just as the children in the parable are drawn back to safety and wisdom.


[Verse 1]
Days drift by, and spirits fade 
Our roots are still, no growth to show 
In our minds, we start to wade 
Through doubt and fear we’ve come to know 

[Verse 2]
Wading through this endless time 
To rise above this dull embrace 
Inertia holds us in its climb 
A mountain we must surely face 

[Chorus]
To find the strength we knew before 
Revive the spark, let’s heal the heart 
Rekindle hope, chase what’s in store 
The journey takes us back to start 

[Verse 3]
We’ve walked this road far too long 
Forgot the joy that life can give 
The wind that used to make us strong 
Reminds us now that we must live 

[Bridge]
Shake off the dust, break every chain 
Step forward now, we won’t look back 
Rediscover joy, forget the pain 
And set ourselves back on track 

[Chorus]
To find the strength we knew before 
Revive the spark, let’s heal the heart 
Rekindle hope, chase what’s in store 
The journey takes us back to start 

Reprise: 

[Verse 3]
We’ve walked this road far too long 
Forgot the joy that life can give 
The wind that used to make us strong 
Reminds us now that we must live 

[Bridge]
Shake off the dust, break every chain 
Step forward now, we won’t look back 
Rediscover joy, forget the pain 
And set ourselves back on track 

[Chorus]
To find the strength we knew before 
Revive the spark, let’s heal the heart 
Rekindle hope, chase what’s in store 
The journey takes us back to start

Back To The Start

Celestial Wings of Wisdom

Immerse yourself in the transcendent melodies of Celestial Wings of Wisdom, a soul-stirring folk-gospel journey inspired by Chapter Seven of the Lotus Sūtra. This song unites heartfelt harmonies, luminous imagery, and a universal call for enlightenment, carried on the wings of celestial Brahma angels. With intricate gospel harmonies and uplifting folk rhythms, it’s a hymn of hope, love, and unity at a pivotal moment in human history. Let this music carry you to a place of profound connection and inspiration.


Lyrics: 
Verse 1 Oh, Brahma angels, glowing bright, With chariots gleaming, pure as light, You who cross the multiverse wide, Carry this song where truth resides.

Pre-Chorus Through glittering skies, your wings unfold, On winds of wisdom, pure and bold, The world awaits your healing sound, A song of peace, where love is found.

Chorus Celestial wings, take this prayer, To hearts in need, to souls laid bare. From this small spark, let flames arise, A hymn of hope through endless skies.

Verse 2 Great Lord of Knowledge, ancient guide, Your voice resounds where stars abide. Grant us the strength, the courage to sing, And share your truth with everything.

Pre-Chorus Through radiant realms, your wisdom flows, Where time dissolves, compassion grows. Unite the worlds with melody, A bridge of light, a cosmic sea.

Chorus Celestial wings, take this prayer, To hearts in need, to souls laid bare. From this small spark, let flames arise, A hymn of hope through endless skies.

Bridge At this great juncture, on the edge of dawn, A burst of knowing, a brighter song. Angels of Brahma, hear my plea, Carry this music, set it free.

Final Chorus Celestial wings, take this prayer, To hearts in need, to souls laid bare. From this small spark, let flames arise, A hymn of hope through endless skies.

Outro Oh, Brahma angels, ever near, May your light guide, may all things clear. Together we sing, together we rise, To share this truth where wisdom lies.

Celestlal Wings of Wisdom

Eye and Heart

“The Eye and Heart (Torch Song)”
This melancholic Jazz torch song brings to life the poetic conflict between the Eye and the Heart. It is inspired by Shakespeare’s Sonnet 46. The piece is set in F Major. It features a soulful male vocal performance and rich piano accompaniment. The grounding rhythm section and poignant oboe solo enhance the composition. Violins weave through the arrangement, adding depth to the emotional tension and harmony of this introspective piece. “The Eye and Heart” tells a story of balance and unity. It invites you to explore the intersection of beauty, love, and perception.


Lyrics:
The Eye and Heart once fell to fight,
Each claiming what they thought was right.
Said Eye, “Their beauty I behold,
Their every feature, bright and bold.

Without my gaze, you’d never know
The grace and form that make them glow.”
The Heart replied, “But what I keep
Goes far beyond what eyes can reap.

For in my depths, their love resides,
A hidden truth your view denies.”
They quarreled on, both firm, intense,
Until the Thoughts were called for sense.

The Thoughts decreed, with voices clear,
“Each holds a part that’s just as dear.
The Eye may claim their outer frame,
While Heart can hold the love’s true flame.”

And so, in balance, they would stay,
To cherish all in their own way.
For only joined could they unite
The soul within, the form in sight.

Eye and Heart

Dharma Rain

Experience the profound beauty of "Dharma Rain," a soulful folk/blues song. It features rich vocals and is accompanied by the heartfelt melodies of guitar, harmonica, bass, and drums. This captivating track brings the timeless teachings of the Dharma to life through evocative metaphors and powerful imagery.

"Dharma Rain" explores the nurturing essence of the Dharma. It compares the Dharma to gentle rain that nourishes all beings. It is like a precious jewel that illuminates the path and an ocean of boundless wisdom. Each verse reflects the universal and adaptable nature of the Buddha's teachings, highlighting their power to heal, guide, and transform.

With its soulful vocals and blues/folk instrumentation, "Dharma Rain" creates a warm and inviting atmosphere. It draws listeners into a spiritual journey of enlightenment and compassion. Let the soothing harmonica, steady guitar, and rhythmic drums guide you through this profound exploration of the Dharma's essence.

[Lyrics:]
(Verse 1)
In the whispers of the Dharma, 
where the truth unfolds,
Gentle rain of wisdom, 
touching hearts untold.
From a vast and mighty cloud, 
drops of grace do fall,
Nourishing every soul, 
great and small.

(Chorus)
Oh, Dharma rain, 
come nourish me,
With your gentle touch, 
set my spirit free.
Universal truth, 
from the heavens above,
Teach me the ways of compassion 
and love.

(Verse 2)
Like a precious blossom, 
rare and bright,
Dharma's teachings, 
shining in the night.
Rays of the gem, 
banners in the sky,
Illuminate the path, 
where spirits fly.

(Chorus)
Oh, Dharma rain, 
come nourish me,
With your gentle touch, 
set my spirit free.
Universal truth, 
from the heavens above,
Teach me the ways of compassion 
and love.

(Bridge)
A skilled physician, 
with a heart so kind,
Heals the weary soul, 
eases the troubled mind.
With tender wisdom, 
guiding us through,
Showing the way, 
in all that we do.

(Verse 3)
Though paths may diverge, 
there's one true way,
A single vehicle, 
where lost find their stay.
An ocean of wisdom, 
deep and vast,
Boundless truths, 
forever to last.

(Chorus)
Oh, Dharma rain, 
come nourish me,
With your gentle touch, 
set my spirit free.
Universal truth, 
from the heavens above,
Teach me the ways of compassion 
and love.

(Outro)
In the Dharma's embrace, 
we find our light,
A precious gift, 
shining ever bright.
Rooted in compassion, 
ending all pain,
Transforming hearts, 
like cleansing rain.

(Chorus)
Oh, Dharma rain, 
come nourish me,
With your gentle touch, 
set my spirit free.
Universal truth, 
from the heavens above,
Teach me the ways of compassion 
and love.

Dharma Rain

From Dukha’s Veil

“From Dukha’s Veil” is a soulful blues track that captures the journey from suffering to enlightenment. Inspired by the themes of liberation and self-discovery, this song blends powerful lyrics with a bluesy melody, reflecting the triumph of breaking free from the chains of dogma and embracing the dawn of a new, enlightened way of living. With its deep grooves and evocative vocals, “From Dukha’s Veil” invites listeners to explore the transformative power of music and the boundless creativity that comes with a mind set free. Let the music take you on a journey of awakening, as we celebrate the breaking of old barriers and the emergence of new possibilities.

Lyrics

[Intro]

[Verse 1]
From Dukha’s veil, I break, I rise,
Enlightenment’s dawn, it lights the skies.
Emancipation’s wings now soar,
Higher, brighter than before.

[Chorus]
No more bound, no more confined,
Reason reigns, it’s clear, it’s kind.
Knowledge pours, a potent stream,
Feeding every single dream.

[Verse 2]
Dogma’s chains, they crack, they fall,
Truth stands tall, it calls, it calls.
Independent thought, a flame, a fire,
Burning bright with pure desire.

[Chorus]
Creativity unleashed, untamed,
A boundless sea, unashamed.
Explorin’ realms unseen, unknown,
Breaking barriers, all alone.

[Instrumental]

[Bridge]
Individuality, a gem, a star,
Shining strong, it travels far.
Diversity, a vibrant hue,
Each voice distinct, each one true.

[Chorus]
No more bound, no more confined,
Reason reigns, it’s clear, it’s kind.
Knowledge pours, a potent stream,
Feeding every single dream.

[Verse 2]
Dogma’s chains, they crack, they fall,
Truth stands tall, it calls, it calls.
Independent thought, a flame, a fire,
Burning bright with pure desire.

[Chorus]
Creativity unleashed, untamed,
A boundless sea, unashamed.
Explorin’ realms unseen, unknown,
Breaking barriers, all alone.

[Chorus]
Creativity unleashed, untamed,
A boundless sea, unashamed.
Explorin’ realms unseen, unknown,
Breaking barriers, all alone.

[Chorus]
Creativity unleashed, untamed,
A boundless sea, unashamed.
Explorin’ realms unseen, unknown,
Breaking barriers, all alone.

[Instrumental

[Verse 3]
Individuality, a gem, a star,
Shining strong, it travels far.
Diversity, a vibrant hue,
Each voice distinct, each one true.

[Bridge]
From Dukha’s grasp, I stand, I grow,
On solid ground, it’s time to show.
With hearts wide open, minds so clear,
Building futures, drawing near.

[Verse 4]
A world where justice is the key,
Equality reigns, eternally.
In this new dawn, we stand, we rise,
United minds beneath the skies.

[Outro]
Let’s celebrate this brighter way,
Dukha’s grip has gone, we say.
Enlightenment’s here for all, for one,
The journey’s just begun, begun.

[End]

From Dukha's Veil

The Illusion of Fire

The Illusion of Fire is a captivating blend of Blues, Folk, and Hip-Hop. It delves deep into the juxtaposition between perceived chaos and underlying serenity. Inspired by the profound teachings of the Lotus Sūtra, this track explores themes of delusion and enlightenment. It also delves into the true essence of peace amidst apparent turmoil.

The Illusion of Fire creates a rich soundscape through soulful guitar riffs, heartfelt acoustic melodies, and dynamic rhythmic beats. They bridge traditional storytelling with modern musicality. The lyrics invite listeners to transcend fear and misconception, embracing a harmonious and enlightened perspective of the world.

If you’re drawn to introspective lyrics, The Illusion of Fire offers a unique experience. It also provides powerful grooves. Innovative genre-blending sounds make it a thought-provoking listening experience. Let the soothing harmonies envelop you. Compelling rhythms will guide you on a journey from confusion to clarity. Move from turmoil to tranquility.


Lyrics: 
[Verse]
They think the world’s aflame now
End times calling tonight
Eyes closed they see destruction
But all’s serene in light

[Verse 2]
A peaceful realm ignored
By minds so lost in fear
While all around is quiet
The truth is crystal clear

[Chorus]
In delusion they whisper
The fire's bright and high
But through the smoke of fiction
The world is calm and dry

[Verse 3]
Great fires they imagine
As cities crumble down
Yet here in my own vision
No flames to spread around

[Verse 4]
The kalpa’s end they rattle
A tale that shakes the soul
But here beneath the daylight
Balance keeps control

[Bridge]
They see the end of days
Through clouds of misbelief
Yet all around a harmony
Beyond the reach of grief

Reprise:

[Verse 2]
A peaceful realm ignored
By minds so lost in fear
While all around is quiet
The truth is crystal clear

[Chorus]
In delusion they whisper
The fire's bright and high
But through the smoke of fiction
The world is calm and dry

[Verse 3]
Great fires they imagine
As cities crumble down
Yet here in my own vision
The world is calm and dry
The world is calm and dry

[Chorus]
In delusion they whisper
The fire's bright and high
But through the smoke of fiction
The world is calm and dry

[Verse 3]
Great fires they imagine
As cities crumble down
Yet here in my own vision
The world is calm and dry

[Verse 3]
Great fires they imagine
As cities crumble down
Yet here in my own vision
The world is calm and dry

The world is calm and dry

The world is calm and dry

[Verse 4]
The kalpa’s end they rattle
A tale that shakes the soul
But here beneath the daylight
Balance keeps control

[Bridge]
They see the end of days
Through clouds of misbelief
Yet all around a harmony
Beyond the reach of grief

The Illusion of Fire (Unplugged)

"Woven Together" is an uplifting and inspiring song with a universal message of unity, compassion, and hope.  With a blend of folk, blues, and world music influences, the song creates a tapestry of sound that reflects the interconnectedness of all beings.

The lyrics paint vivid imagery, evoking a sense of shared humanity and encouraging listeners to embrace their role in the grand symphony of life. The song's message is both timely and timeless, drawing on ancient wisdom while addressing contemporary challenges.

Lyrics: 
(Verse 1) 
Woke up this mornin', 
sun shinin' in my face 
Heard a whisper on the wind, 
a message for the human race 
Said, 
"Open up your heart, 
let compassion be your guide 
We're all connected, 
intertwined, 
can't leave no one behind"

(Chorus) 
Yeah, 
the world's a tapestry, 
threads of every hue 
Woven together, me and you 
From the mountains to the sea, 
one grand symphony 
Singin' a song of unity, 
eternally

(Verse 2) 
Walked down the dusty road, 
met a stranger with a smile 
Shared stories of our journeys, 
for a little while 
Heard the laughter of children, 
playin' in the sun 
Felt the rhythm of the heartbeat, 
everyone as one

(Chorus) 
Yeah, 
the world's a tapestry, 
threads of every hue 
Woven together, 
me and you 
From the mountains to the sea, 
one grand symphony 
Singin' a song of unity, 
eternally

(Bridge) 
Ancient wisdom whispers, 
from the scriptures old and new 
The truth is always there, 
shinin' bright and true 
In every leaf and every stone, 
a spark of the divine 
A universal message, 
for all space and time

(Chorus) 
Yeah, 
the world's a tapestry, 
threads of every hue 
Woven together, 
me and you 
From the mountains to the sea, 
one grand symphony 
Singin' a song of unity, 
eternally

(Outro) 
So let your light shine brightly, 
let your love flow free 
Join the chorus of voices, 
singin' harmony 
Together we'll rise above, 
break the chains that bind 
And create a world of peace, 
for all humankind


Woven Together

Karma

A soul-stirring blend of modern culture and ancient wisdom, this song explores themes of karma, Dharma, and spiritual awakening. With poetic lyrics that balance humor, introspection, and raw truth, it reflects on the trials of life, the search for enlightenment, and the beauty found in both effort and emptiness. Its fusion of folksy melodies, bluesy rhythms, and urban storytelling creates an evocative soundscape that resonates deeply with listeners.

[Verse 1]
Some Reiki
Some karma
Some things I shouldn't laugh about like being named Dharma
So then what?
It's nothing
The trying brings the treasure but the truth comes with suffering

[Chorus]
It's nothing
The trying brings the treasure but the truth comes with suffering
Ooh-la-la
Ooh-la-la
[Verse 2]
Somewhere free
Some Beacon downs
Some Dharma dogs will show you all the Eightfold Paths
Some because it's below us
Some say it's between us
Some say it's within us
Some Buddhists I don't trust
Until then

[Chorus]
Karma comes
Can sittin' bring the salvation 'cause let's see you tryin'?
Ooh-la-la
Ooh-la-la
Ah
Ooh-la-la
Ooh-la-la
Ah

[Bridge]
I can't prove
I want stories
Like dance and music
And I can taste it and
Weneedit
And I can't sleep and I
Everything I
We already have
And whatever it is
We already have it
Whatever it is
Whenever it was
We always had it
Ahh ahh

[Verse 3]
Some Beyoncé
Some hip-hop
Some immigrants
Some rock n' roll talk
Some "Once upon a"
Some stopped outside the Salinas Inn
Some said taught
Nothing could have prepared us
Some said stopped
Karma's gonna get ya
It ain't the first time
No
It ain't the first choice
No
But here we are
We
You
You and me
Ah!

[Chorus]
It's nothing
The tryin' brings the treasure but the truth comes with suffering
Some say ah
Ooh-la-la
Ooh-la-la
Some say it's nothing
[Outro]
Some nothin'
Some Dharma
Some nothin'
Some say it's nothing

Karma

Drift Between

"‘Drift Between’ invites you on a journey of stillness and serenity. This mesmerizing blend of melodic whispers, binaural shifts, and soothing rhythms is crafted to guide you into a meditative state. Perfect for unwinding, meditating, or simply escaping into tranquility, ‘Drift Between’ creates a soundscape where silence and calmness become your companions. Let the waves of sound pull you deeper into a space of peace and introspection."


[Intro – Whispered, soft left channel]
Close your eyes…
Feel the weight of the air…
Slowly… slowly… drift in…

[Right channel, gentle and low]
Let go now…
Let the stillness begin…
Falling softly within…

[Verse 1 – Melodic, centered voice]
Breathing in, breathing out…
Floating free of the doubt…
Every sound melts away…
You’re lighter than the light of day…

[Chorus – Binaural shift, oscillating left to right]
Left side… quiet tides…
Right side… open wide…
Sink down… deeper down…
Let the silence pull you around…

[Verse 2 – Right channel, close and intimate]
The air is warm, the mind unwinds…
Feel the pulse between the lines…
Every thought dissolves like rain…
Drifting down… no need to explain…

[Bridge – Slower tempo, layered vocals in stereo]
(Left) Floating down…
(Right) Letting go…
(Left) Deeper now…
(Right) Soft and slow…

[Chorus – Stronger binaural effect]
Left side… quiet tides…
Right side… open wide…
Sink down… deeper down…
Let the silence pull you around…

[Outro – Whispered, left to right echo]
Here you are… you have arrived…
No need to speak, just stay inside…
Feel the glow… as you rest…
Let your mind feel weightless…

[Final fade-out – Whispered simultaneously in both channels]
Drift… drift… drift…

Drift Between

Lotus Wind
"Lotus Wind" is a meditative and uplifting song inspired by the mantra Nam Myoho Renge Kyo. With gentle vocals and soothing melodies, this song invites you to connect with the power of the present moment and find peace amidst life's challenges.


(Verse 1) 
In the silence of dawn
When the world is still drawn
To shadows and sleep
These words that I keep
Nam Myoho Renge Kyo
Like waves they flow
Nam Myoho Renge Kyo

(Chorus)
Nam Myoho Renge Kyo
Each syllable unfolds like a flower
Nam Myoho Renge Kyo
Every moment holds this power
Through joy and through pain
This truth remains
Nam Myoho Renge Kyo

(Verse 2)
In the midst of the crowd
Where life speaks aloud
Each step that I take
Each choice that I make
Nam Myoho Renge Kyo
This path I know
Nam Myoho Renge Kyo

(Bridge)
Mystic law of cause and effect
Turning like the earth
Every breath connects
To infinite worth
In this moment's space
Find endless grace

(Final Chorus)
Nam Myoho Renge Kyo
Each syllable unfolds like a flower
Nam Myoho Renge Kyo
Every moment holds this power
Through changes we face
In time and space
Nam Myoho Renge Kyo

Lotus Wind

In Every Heart

"In Every Heart" is a quiet, intimate acoustic blues/folk song inspired by a passage from Chapter 14 of the Lotus Sutra, specifically the Buddha's teachings to Manjusri Bodhisattva on peaceful practices. This song reflects the essence of that wisdom, encouraging listeners to release negativity, speak with kindness and respect, and cultivate a heart filled with compassion. It's a gentle reminder to approach the world with love, refrain from judgment, and embrace the inherent goodness in every being. The lyrics explore themes of forgiveness, understanding, and the transformative power of choosing peaceful responses. Let the simple melody and heartfelt words wash over you, bringing a moment of tranquility to your day.


Verse]
In teachings shared we learn to see
Harsh words just fade like fallen leaves
Respect for wise ones earnestly
In every heart find sweet reprieves

[Verse 2]
Don't sow the seeds of others' faults
Let every word raise spirits high
In gentle kindness
Truth exalts
In every heart let love apply

[Chorus]
Speak not of merits or the flaws
Lift up the heavy
Mend the torn
Let gentle whispers be our laws
In every heart let peace be born

[Bridge]
No hostile feelings find a home
In peaceful ways let spirits thrive
With open hearts through wisdom roam
In every heart let love arrive

[Verse 3]
Release the grip of bitter ties
In every soul a light does gleam
Through compassion darkness flies
In every heart let kindness stream

[Chorus]
Speak not of merits or the flaws
Lift up the heavy
Mend the torn
Let gentle whispers be our laws
In every heart let peace be born

In Every Heart

Welcome to the musical world of The William Altig Choir, where ancient wisdom meets contemporary sound.

Inspired by the teachings of the Lotus Sutra and infused with deep spiritual themes, my music blends the rich traditions of blues and folk with modern elements, creating a unique fusion that resonates with both the heart and soul.

I've been captivated by the Lotus Sutra's messages of compassion, wisdom, and transformation since my youth. It's a journey of self-discovery that has found its voice in my music. Each song is a reflection of my own spiritual awakening and a celebration of universal truths.

My style is characterized by emotive storytelling, powerful lyrics, and a commitment to exploring the depths of human experience. Featuring contemplative blues, acoustic slide guitar, saxophone melodies, and the harmonies of a gospel choir, my music reflects a quest for enlightenment and a better understanding of the self.

Join me on this musical journey. Together, we can explore the teachings of the Lotus Sutra, finding solace, hope, and a deeper connection to the world around us.

#SpiritualMusic  #LotusSutraMusic  #ContemplativeBlues  #BuddhistGospel #AcousticSlideGuitar  #GospelChoir  #Self-Discovery  #SpiritualAwakening  #Hope  #The_William_Altig_Choir

Back To The Start

The William Altig Choir

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