You See Me Or Not

(By Tsangyang Gyatso)

You see me, or you see me not,

I am standing right there.

Without sorrow or joy.

You miss me, or you miss me not,

The feeling is right there.

Not coming, not going.

You love me, or you love me not,

Love is right there.

Not increasing, not decreasing.

You follow me, or you follow me not,

My hand is in your hand.

Not letting go.

Come into my embrace,

Or,

Let me dwell in your heart.

Silent love,

Quiet joy.

The poetry of Tsangyang Gyatso broke free from the constraints of traditional religious verse, fusing religious thought with secular emotions to reveal the complexity and beauty of human nature. Most of his poems explore themes like love and freedom, characterized by unadorned, natural language and delicate sentiment. By infusing Buddhist philosophy into worldly feelings, he created a unique aesthetic style. Tsangyang Gyatso's poetic works are not only cherished in Tibet but have also been widely disseminated and interpreted across the globe. Traveling through Tibet while immersed in his poetry allows one to discover the deepest emotions within their own heart.

Tsangyang Gyatso's "You See Me Or Not" is a deeply emotional poem that depicts the resilience and selflessness of love through simple yet profound words. With minimalistic language, it portrays love's tenacity and devotion. Regardless of external changes, love maintains its essence and purity.

“You see me, or you see me not, / I am standing right there.”
This line describes a state of existence beyond subjective perception. Whether you see me or acknowledge my presence, I remain there—a portrayal of objective reality and an embodiment of love’s steadfast and selfless nature. Whether you are aware of me or act toward me, I endure in silent presence and patient waiting.

“You miss me, or you miss me not, / The feeling is right there.”
This line deepens the depiction of love. Whether you long for me or hold affection for me, love persists. It reflects unwavering faith in love and a profound understanding of its nature. Whether you cherish me or feel for me, I remain, silently present and waiting.

“You love me, or you love me not, / Love is right there.”
Here, the existence and power of love reach their zenith. Whether you love me or not, love endures. This expresses a unique insight into love—a deeply lived experience. Regardless of your feelings or actions toward me, I persist in quiet existence and unwavering patience.

Finally, “You follow me, or you follow me not, / My hand is in your hand.”
This line conveys love’s action and resolve with stark simplicity. Whether you choose to walk with me or not, my hands remain in yours. It speaks of resolute commitment and a profound grasp of love’s truth. No matter your choice or action, I stand beside you—silently present, silently waiting.