These are Thich Nhat Hanh's adaptations of the gathas from The Essential Vinaya for Daily Use, originally taught by Master Du Ti inspired by verses in the Flower Garland Sutra. There are several new gathas added to account for common activites in modern life.

These short poems are meant to be recited throughout the day, reminding us to practice mindfulness in ordinary moments. The effect is to train our minds to cease wandering and return to the present moment. When initially reading them, we focus on their poetic qualities; but after a long time of practicing this way, each gatha carries the weight of our daily lives.

The practice of reciting gathas helps us see the value in ordinary moments. This is of both the practice and the fruit of the practice. We do not practice to go somewhere else, but to be wherever we are. With time, we can transform unwholesome mental states by shining the light of awareness on all things, thereby leading to insight, allowing us to take better actions, and to reveal the beauty and wonder of the world.

I initially found these gathas printed on cards hanging on the walls of Plum Village monasteries. I made this webpage by copying them from this document.