Mr. Altig’s Overview of the Wonderful Dharma of the Lotus Sutra

“Poison Into Medicine” is a bluesy folk anthem about finding strength in struggle and transforming life’s hardships into wisdom. Inspired by the Buddhist teacher Nichiren’s teachings, this song weaves ancient philosophy with raw, soulful blues to remind us that our greatest challenges can become our greatest teachers.

Like the lotus that blooms from muddy water, this song celebrates the beauty that emerges from difficulty. With gritty vocals and heartfelt lyrics, it speaks to anyone who’s ever faced adversity and chosen to grow through it rather than be broken by it.

Perfect for fans of spiritual blues, conscious folk music, and anyone seeking songs about resilience, transformation, and finding joy in the journey—even when the road is rough.

Key themes: Turning obstacles into opportunities • Buddhist wisdom meets American blues • Resilience and personal growth • Finding delight in the struggle • The lotus blooming in mud

Verse 1: 
Well, I woke up this morning, trouble at my door
Same old heavy burden that I’ve been carrying before
But the teacher said to me, “Don’t you turn and run—
The lotus blooms in muddy water, rising to the sun”

Chorus: 
Gonna turn this poison into medicine
Let the struggle make me strong again
Every trial is a teacher, every tear’s a friend
Gonna turn this poison into medicine

Verse 2: 
Lightning in the darkness shows you where to go
Can’t appreciate the mountain if you never climb the road
The fire that tests you is the fire that makes you shine
Your earthly troubles are the path to the divine

Chorus: 
Gonna turn this poison into medicine
Let the struggle make me strong again
Every trial is a teacher, every tear’s a friend
Gonna turn this poison into medicine

Bridge: 
Nam-myoho-renge-kyo, that’s the ancient song
Finding joy right in the middle when everything goes wrong
The seed breaks open in the dark beneath the ground
Before the flower shows its face, it’s got to be broken down

Verse 3: 
So bring your storms and bring your rain, bring your heaviest load
I’ll be chanting through the pain, walking down this road
‘Cause suffering ain’t the enemy I used to know
It’s the gateway to the wisdom that will help me grow

Final Chorus: 
I’m turning poison into medicine
Let the struggle make me strong again
Every trial is a teacher, every tear’s a friend
I’m turning poison into medicine Oh,
I’m turning poison into medicine

Outro: 
Delight is in the struggle, friend
Delight is in the struggle, friend
The lotus rises, and will rise again