The monks of our Order live according to a simple rule of life, adapted from the Brief Rule of St. Romuald of Camaldoli. Unlike many religious orders, we mindfully choose not to bog ourselves down with extensive documents, when the Eightfold Path, the Sutras, our Charter and the Brief Rule make it clear and simple, how we are to live:

THE BRIEF RULE

Sit in your cell as in paradise;
put the whole world behind you and forget it;
like a skilled angler on the lookout for a catch
keep a careful eye on your thoughts.

The path you follow is the Dharma of Compassion --
never abandon that path.

If you've come with a novice's enthusiasm and can't
accomplish what you want, take every chance you can find
to chant the sacred Mantra of Chenrezi:
OM MANI PADME HUM
in your heart; if your mind wanders as you chant
don't give up but hurry back and try again.

Above all realise that above all else, you are
in the presence of Divine Perfection;
you hold your heart there in wonder
as if before your sovereign.

You are that Sovereign, for it is written,
"The sovereign domain of the Enlightened One
is within you."

Empty yourself completely;
sit waiting, content with the gift of Silence,
like a little chick tasting and eating nothing
but what its mother brings.

With all your heart,
as the sun rises and sets each day:
Vow to do all you can to end the suffering of all beings;
Vow to uproot endless blind passions and attachments;
Vow to penetrate the Dharma Gates beyond measure;
Vow to realise your birthright as an Awakened and Anointed One
for the good of all sentient beings, and as a caretaker of all Creation.