Seekers of Truth’s Blues

This bluesy song explores the spiritual journey of a Seeker of Truth, embracing compassion and striving for enlightenment while acknowledging the weight of the world's suffering. Featuring soulful vocals, Dobro guitar, harmonica, and upright bass, it blends the raw emotion of the blues with the uplifting message of Buddhist teachings.

Verse 1
Woke up this morning, blues running deep  
Through a world of sorrow that makes my soul weep  
Pain in every face I see, hear the cries in the air  
Walking Truth's path now, such weight to bear

Chorus
But I keep on walking, steady as the tide  
Carrying the weight of this world inside  
This ain't no easy road, no simple plight  
But I'm bound for enlightenment's guiding light

Verse 2
Left my selfish ways, let go of pride  
Lit compassion's flame, let my ego subside  
Fighting through my demons, facing shadows within  
Reaching out to others, helping them begin

Chorus
But I keep on walking, steady as the tide  
Carrying the weight of this world inside  
This ain't no easy road, no simple plight  
But I'm bound for enlightenment's guiding light

Bridge
They say the Warrior's path brings nothing but strife  
But Divine Love fuels me, gives my spirit life  
Each step I take now makes my soul grow strong  
Planting seeds of kindness where I walk along

Chorus
But I keep on walking, steady as the tide  
Carrying the weight of this world inside  
This ain't no easy road, no simple plight  
But I'm bound for enlightenment's guiding light

Outro
Though the blues may linger, my heart's full of grace  
Walking Truth's path now, bringing light to each space  
Though the blues may linger, my heart's full of grace  
Walking Truth's path now, bringing light to each space

Seeker of Truth's Blues

Many people around the world are suffering due to the actions of America's current President. Join Jonathan Prescott to explore how to find peace even in these difficult times. He helps us connect with the deep listening and skillful responses modeled by Avalokiteshvara, the Bodhistattva of Compassion, so that we can both protect ourselves from overwhelm and learn to respond effectively to this assault on American democracy.

Finding Peace in Difficult Times

Dive into the soulful currents of 'Necklace of the Boundless Heart,' a bluesy folk ballad inspired by the Lotus Sutra’s timeless tale of compassion and shared merit. With a voice full of grit and grace, this song weaves the story of Bodhisattvas offering a jeweled necklace not for themselves, but for all beings—from dragons in the deep to gods in the sky. The slow, rhythmic pace carries you down a golden river of kindness, blending raw emotion with cosmic wonder. Perfect for those who love heartfelt storytelling, spiritual resonance, and a touch of the blues.

Lyrics: 
[Verse 1]
Down by the river where the lotus grows,
Endless-Intent came with a gift to show,
A necklace of gems, shining bright as the dawn,
For World-Voice who hears every cry that’s born.

[Chorus]
Oh, share that merit, let it roll like the tide,
Boundless compassion, reaching far and wide,
From the gods in the sky to the dragons below,
A heart full of mercy makes the whole world glow.

[Verse 2]
World-Voice said, "No, I don’t need that shine,
My hands are for healin’, not holdin’ what’s mine."
But the Buddha spoke soft, with a voice so clear,
"Take it for the lost ones, the ones livin’ in fear."

[Chorus]
Oh, share that merit, let it roll like the tide,
Boundless compassion, reaching far and wide,
From the gods in the sky to the dragons below,
A heart full of mercy makes the whole world glow.

[Bridge]
He split that treasure, two halves in his hands,
One for the Buddha, one for the timeless land,
No greed in his soul, just a gift to send,
A circle of kindness that’ll never end.

[Verse 3]
For the monks and the nuns, for the folks on the way,
For the spirits that dance at the end of the day,
Yakshas and garudas, kinnaras sing,
Every livin’ thing caught in samsara’s sting.

[Reprise verse 3]
For the monks and the nuns, for the folks on the way,
For the spirits that dance at the end of the day,
Yakshas and garudas, kinnaras sing,
Every livin’ thing caught in samsara’s sting.

[Outro]
So sing me a sutra, let the verses unwind,
Of a necklace that frees every troubled mind,
Through the dust and the blues, let the story be told,
Boundless merit shines like a river of gold.

Necklace of the Boundless Heart

"The Necklace of Boundless Compassion" is a soulful, blues-infused folk ballad that weaves a timeless Buddhist parable into a universal anthem of generosity and interconnectedness. Inspired by Chapter 25 of the Lotus Sutra, the song tells the story of Endless-Intent Bodhisattva’s offering of a priceless necklace to World-Voice-Perceiver (Avalokiteshvara), who initially refuses the gift until the Buddha intervenes, urging them to accept it out of compassion for all beings. With haunting imagery of celestial dragons, divine musicians, and humble souls, the lyrics explore themes of selflessness, shared merit, and the transformative power of kindness. The melody’s melancholic yet hopeful tone mirrors the tension between earthly suffering and spiritual liberation, while the chorus—a rallying cry to "let your heart be a bridge"—invites listeners to embody compassion as a force that binds all life.

Lyrics: 
[Verse 1]
Endless-Intent came with a gift in his hand,
A necklace of gems, more than wealth could demand.
He said, "World-Voice-Pearce, take this treasure from me,
For your compassion’s a light on this dark, endless sea."

But the Bodhisattva shook their head, "I cannot receive,
For my path is to give, not to take or believe.
These jewels are too heavy, their shine too bright,
I walk in the shadows, to bring others to light."

[Chorus]
Oh, the Buddha said, "Take it, don’t let it fall,
For compassion’s a river that flows for us all.
Share it with the heavens, the earth, and the sky,
Let your heart be a bridge, let your spirit fly high."

[Verse 2]
So World-Voice-Pearce took the necklace in hand,
And divided the gems as the Buddha had planned.
One half for Shakyamuni, one for the Stupa’s glow,
A gift for the ages, to help all beings grow.

From gods in the heavens to dragons below,
From the hungry and weary to the ones we don’t know,
The merit flowed outward, a boundless tide,
A circle of giving where no one’s denied.

[Chorus]
Oh, the Buddha said, "Take it, don’t let it fall,
For compassion’s a river that flows for us all.
Share it with the heavens, the earth, and the sky,
Let your heart be a bridge, let your spirit fly high."

[Bridge]
The yakshas and garudas, the kinnaras sing,
The gandharvas play as the bells softly ring.
From the highest deva to the humblest soul,
The merit of kindness makes the broken world whole.

[Verse 3]
So if you’ve got a gift, don’t hold it too tight,
Let it flow like a river, let it shine like a light.
For the jewels of this world are just fleeting and vain,
But the merit of compassion is an eternal flame.

[Chorus]
Oh, the Buddha said, "Take it, don’t let it fall,
For compassion’s a river that flows for us all.
Share it with the heavens, the earth, and the sky,
Let your heart be a bridge, let your spirit fly high."

[Outro]
Boundless compassion, it starts with a spark,
A gift from the heart in the infinite dark.
So give what you can, let your kindness be known,
And the merit you share will never be alone.


The Necklace of Boundless Compassion

"The Bodhisattva's Mirror" is a contemplative and gently melancholic folk song, infused with subtle blues influences. Inspired by Buddhist philosophy, the song explores the idea that enlightenment and compassion reside within all beings, and that every encounter offers an opportunity for transformation. The lyrics paint a picture of a Bodhisattva – an enlightened being dedicated to helping others – who appears in countless forms, reflecting back our own potential for awakening.

(Verse 1 - Folk Style - Simple Chords, steady rhythm) In this world of mist and pain, Where joy and sorrow fall like rain, A gentle spirit walks unseen, Reflectin' back what might have been. A Bodhisattva, soft and low, Watchin' seeds of kindness grow.

(Chorus - Slightly more Bluesy - a little more vocal power, maybe a harmonica fill) Oh, the mirror shines, it shows us true, Buddha-nature waitin' in me and you. Lookin' for a light to break the chain, Love is here, again and again.

(Verse 2 - Folk Style - slightly more rhythmic) Like moonlight dancin' on the lake, Or petals fallin' for goodness sake, This spirit changes, takes a guise, A teacher's wisdom in their eyes. A child's sweet face, a stranger's hand, Help is offered across the land.

(Chorus - Slightly more Bluesy - a little more vocal power, maybe a harmonica fill) Oh, the mirror shines, it shows us true, Buddha-nature waitin' in me and you. Lookin' for a light to break the chain, Love is here, again and again.

(Verse 3 - Blues influenced - a little more space in the rhythm, slightly more vocal inflection) Greed can rust the heart within, But compassion lets the healing begin. A cool breeze whisperin' in the soul, Makin' broken spirits whole. Walk with care on this weary ground, Every breath a sacred sound.

(Verse 4 - Folk Style - building slightly in intensity) From mountain high to ocean deep, While we're wakin' and while we sleep, A song is callin', soft and clear, "Awaken, love is always here!" In every face, a mystery, A chance for transformation, you see.

(Chorus - Strongest yet - full vocal, harmonica prominent) Oh, the mirror shines, it shows us true, Buddha-nature waitin' in me and you. Lookin' for a light to break the chain, Love is here, again and again.

(Bridge - Bluesy - slower, more introspective - maybe a simple guitar solo) Who can say which form we'll find, To leave the troubled world behind? Each one a teacher, hid from view, Waitin' for a heart that's open and new.

(Outro - Folk Style - fades out slowly - fingerpicked guitar) So open your eyes, and look around, Love is here, on sacred ground. Love is here... Love is here... (Instrumental fade)

The Bodhisattva’s Mirror

Michael Stone talks on the importance of relaxing your mind and how patience and relaxation give rise to enthusiasm. The talk is based on chapter 8 of Shantideva's Guide to a Bodhisattva's Way of Life. Ways of seeing your parents, how deep concentration arises through relaxation, and how to glide with breathing. Recorded at Centre of Gravity, Toronto on April 9, 2013.

The Awake in the World podcast is brought to you by the generosity of our amazing Patreon supporters, making it possible for us to keep Michael's archive of teachings available to the public. To become a patron, visit: patreon.com/michaelstone.

Best of Awake in the World : Relax Your Mind

“Once I Was Fame Seeker” is a folk-blues reflection on the ancient path of transformation and purpose. Inspired by Chapter 1 of the Lotus Sūtra, this song gives voice to the past life of Maitreya Bodhisattva—when he was known as Yaśaskāma, the Fame Seeker. Blending timeless Buddhist wisdom with modern soul, the song explores how our desire for recognition can evolve into a vow to serve, uplift, and illuminate others. It’s a tribute to every artist, seeker, and bodhisattva walking the middle way between longing and letting go. Written and performed by The William Altig Choir.

Lyrics: 
[Verse 1]
Once I was Fame Seeker, walking in dreams,
Longing for glory in soft golden beams.
I sang to the stars, “Let them know my name,”
Not for the praise, but to kindle their flame.

[Chorus]
Once I was Fame Seeker, now I just shine,
Not for the spotlight—just to give a sign.
The light in my chest, it’s not mine to claim—
It passes through me, like a whisper of flame.

[Verse 2]
Mañjuśrī remembered, in ages gone by,
When I asked the meaning of light in the sky.
He said, “You too stood there, long time ago—
And the Buddha you loved let your whole heart glow.”

[Chorus]
Once I was Fame Seeker, now I just shine,
I carry a vow beyond space and time.
To sing what is true, to speak what is kind,
To help you remember the light that’s inside.

[Bridge]
Not every name we wear will stay,
But every vow we make lights the way.
From seeker to servant, from longing to peace,
Each echo of Dharma will never cease.

[Final Chorus]
Once I was Fame Seeker, still I walk on,
With my eyes on the dawn, and my heart in the song.
Not for the fame, not for acclaim—
But to leave this world brighter than when I came.

￼


Once I Was Fame Seeker

“Two Roads of Faith” is a folk-blues meditation on devotion, courage, and the cost of truth. Inspired by the contrast between the Roman Centurion of the Gospels and Lord Ueno, a votary of the Lotus Sutra, this track explores two radically different paths of belief—one grounded in trust without proof, the other in unshakable resolve through persecution.

Set to a slow-burning slide guitar, this blues tale weaves gospel echoes with the spirit of the samurai. The song honors those who stand for what’s right even when the world turns away—those who walk the harder road with no turning back.

“One had status. One had none.
One saw a flash. One faced the sun—
And stayed until his face burned gold.”

A song for the mad and the free. For the votaries. For those still singing under heavy skies.

Lyrics:
[Verse 1 – The Centurion]
A Roman stood by the Teacher’s side,
Armor gleaming, pride set aside.
“My servant’s sick,” he bowed his head,
“Just say the word—he won’t be dead.”

He didn’t ask for proof or sign,
Didn’t walk the dusty line.
He saw the power from afar,
And trusted it like the northern star.

That was faith—
A quiet yes
Without knowing the rest.
He didn’t see the end—
And that was the test.

⸻

[Verse 2 – Lord Ueno]
But far away in warlord lands,
A young man held fate in his hands.
Not Roman, not cloaked in grace—
But a samurai with a Buddha’s face.

He saw the truth in Nichiren’s fire,
Felt the cost climb ever higher.
They taxed him till his roof caved in,
But he never gave up, never gave in.

He fed the monks when his kids went cold,
Sheltered farmers brave and bold.
He knew the end could be a sword—
But still, he held the Mystic Word.

That was faith—
Not in what might be,
But in what must be.
He saw the storm—
And stood like a tree.

⸻

[Bridge – The Comparison]
The Centurion believed in power unspoken.
Lord Ueno believed while his world was broken.
One had status. One had none.
One saw a flash. One faced the sun—
And stayed until his face burned gold.

⸻

[Chorus]
Two roads of faith, both divine,
One trusts the word, the other the line—
Written in sweat, tears, ash, and rain.
Both cried freedom, both bore pain.
But only one walked
With no turning back—
And that’s the road
The Bodhisattvas track.

⸻

[Reprise: Verse 2 – Lord Ueno]
But far away in warlord lands,
A young man held fate in his hands.
Not Roman, not cloaked in grace—
But a samurai with a Buddha’s face.

He saw the truth in Nichiren’s fire,
Felt the cost climb ever higher.
He knew the end could be a sword—
But still, he held the Mystic Word.

That was faith—
Not in what might be,
But in what must be.
He saw the storm—
And stood like a tree.

⸻

[Bridge – The Comparison]
The Centurion believed in power unspoken.
Lord Ueno believed while his world was broken.
One had status. One had none.
One saw a flash. One faced the sun—
And stayed until his face burned gold.

⸻

[Chorus]
Two roads of faith, both divine,
One trusts the word, the other the line—
Written in sweat, tears, ash, and rain.
Both cried freedom, both bore pain.
But only one walked
With no turning back—
And that’s the road
The Bodhisattvas track.



Two Roads of Faith

🎶 The Auspicious Dawn of Wisdom | A Spiritual Folk Blues Journey Through the Lotus Sutra

The Auspicious Dawn of Wisdom is a soulful folk blues meditation inspired by Chapter Seven of the Lotus Sutra.
With tender acoustic guitar, soft slide fills, gentle harmonica, and heartfelt vocals, this song invites the listener into a cosmic and personal journey — where ancient Buddhas awaken, heavenly kings bow in reverence, and fragrant winds carry the essence of wisdom through all worlds.

Through poetic and timeless storytelling, the song retells the awakening of the Buddha Great-Universal-Wisdom-Excellence and the rippling impact across countless realms. But beyond the sacred tale lies a universal truth: enlightenment is not distant or reserved for the few.
The trembling of distant worlds mirrors our own inner transformations. When illusions fall and attachments fade, the light of wisdom naturally breaks through — a dawn we all can know.

With elements of folk, blues, spiritual Americana, and devotional music, The Auspicious Dawn of Wisdom offers a space for reflection, healing, and rediscovering our connection to the eternal Dharma.
For seekers, dreamers, meditators, and lovers of soulful acoustic music, this is an invitation to remember:

The dawn of wisdom is always near — waiting to bloom within you.

⸻

👉 Perfect for fans of:
	•	Folk Blues and Acoustic Storytelling
	•	Spiritual Blues and Americana
	•	Buddhist-inspired music and mindfulness
	•	Ambient, reflective and meditative songs
	•	Mystical and poetic songwriting

⸻

Support and Follow:

🙏 Patreon — Exclusive content, new songs, and Dharma-inspired art
https://patreon.com/SongsofAwakening

📺 YouTube — Subscribe for new releases
https://www.youtube.com/@dwaltig

🌐 Website and Blog — Teachings and songs
https://dwaltig.wordpress.com/

📷 Instagram | 🎵 TikTok | 📘 Facebook — Follow for daily inspiration
https://www.instagram.com/the.william.altig.choir
https://www.tiktok.com/@williamaltig
https://www.facebook.com/the.william.altig.choir

⸻

Lyrics: 
[intro: Solo acoustic guitar + faint harmonica
Fingerpick a descending blues scale to set a reverent, yearning mood.]

[Verse 1 — In the Vastness of Time]
Ten kalpas passed in silent grace,
Still and deep in wisdom’s place.
The Buddha sat, unmoved, serene,
Awaiting dawn, yet still unseen.

[Chorus — When Wisdom Breaks Through]
Then light arose, worlds shook and sang,
The gates of dark to brightness rang.
The heavens bloomed with flowers rare,
Fragrant winds danced through holy air.

[Verse 2 — The Celestial Offering]
Brahma-kings from realms on high,
Cast blossoms falling from the sky.
Not as rulers, but bowed and meek,
Honoring truth they came to seek.

[Bridge — Beyond Time and Space]
Hundred yojanas wide the glow,
Through endless realms the blessings flow.
Kalpas fade, and yet they feel,
The Dharma’s pulse, profound and real.

[Verse 3 — Gods Lay Down Their Crowns]
From countless worlds, the deities came,
Leaving pleasures, whispering His name.
Offerings made, attachments shed,
For wisdom’s light they bowed their head.

[Chorus — When Wisdom Breaks Through]
Then light arose, worlds shook and sang,
The gates of dark to brightness rang.
The heavens bloomed with flowers rare,
Fragrant winds danced through holy air.

[Instrumental]

[Verse 4 — Beyond the Phantom City]
Illusions fall like withered leaves,
The treasure land no longer deceives.
The phantom fades, yet is not gone,
For all along, it led us on.

[Verse 5 — The Universal Call]
The sixteen sons, with voices clear,
Urged the Buddha for all to hear.
The Lotus blooms in every age,
Across the worlds, from sage to sage.

[Final Chorus — The Eternal Song]
Oh, wisdom dawned, and worlds awoke,
The cosmic dream, the veil broke.
Buddhas past and yet to be,
Sing the Sutra eternally.

[Outro — soft, reflective]
So too, within our hearts today,
The flowers fall and drift away.
Yet fragrant winds remind us still,
The Buddha’s vow, the Dharma’s will.

The Auspicious Dawn of Wisdom

im never right im always off timed
i know it hurts so you run from it
stuck in my mind my egos ina bind
turn around and i run from me
forest ground all the leaves and the trees so many tiny particles we cannot even see
i get so high off the weed that my ego slips from me
oh but im not you, who you try to be my mind works differently
and i might go back into the past but im just visiting
whats the point of writing lyrics if you're not listening
and i know sometimes it hurts but pain is glistening

I dont need hoes I dont need drugs
I dont need money I dont need a plug
Grow my own shit cus im growing up
If I pull up then I blow your brains out
I dont needa even think now
I just hop on the beat and break it down
I dont give a fuck what you say now
I found myself and I grab my crown
Nose isnt runny cus im never slimy
I just needa way for me to find me
Pulling up shining like a fucking diamond 

glistening, glistening, glistening, glistening
nostalgia is a trip watch me try to reminisce
glistening
glistening, glistening, glistening, glistening
 oh where have you been watch me try to reminisce
glistening

Bad Timing (Prod. by ari)

Awake in the World Podcast is a library of talks on a wide-range of topics, including bringing mindfulness and meditation practice into daily life; personal and community issues regarding mental health; and social change. The podcasts were recorded at live events so you might hear coughing, airplanes, cars, sirens, laughter, and peoples’ questions—all part of the intimate experience. Michael Stone (1974-2017) was a Buddhist teacher, author, and mental health advocate. His legacy is stewarded by Carina Stone. Podcast funded by Patreon (patreon.com/michaelstone).

Please like and share. 
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

Dharma talks presented by Jonathan Prescott, Michael Melancon, Karla Johnston and other Zen teachers.

New tracks tagged #Bodhisattva