It’s difficult to be born as a human being,
and even just living as a human is full of difficulties.
We’ve passed through endless eons before we could reach even this point,
how can we go beyond even this level?
Don’t think of that long process as suffering,
instead see it as the process of learning and growing.
If you can do this, then because everything is made from the four elements,
and shares these same basic elements,
you will be able to understand the principles and truths that underlie your life,
the world, and the universe.  
And how to become a truly free person will also become clear to you.

Will even this world last forever?
We’re confronted by more and more serious environmental problems, aren’t we.
However, every single thing and action arises from within us,
every single thing and action is contained within our mind,
without knowing this, there is no way we can solve the problems confronting us.
We have to be able to view things from a more fundamental perspective.

As beings have passed through eons of evolution,
the pain they have gone through is beyond imagination,
Killing, being eaten, being crushed,
How much longer will you willingly repeat this?
While you’re here for this short while,
come to your senses and clearly grasp the truth of your mind and fundamental nature,
and transcend this endless cycle of ignorance.

Light the candle that is within you, and the candle within your ancestors will be lit.
This happens automatically — all are fundamentally connected as one.
As you light the candle within your mind, that light shines in the world around you
and all beings become brighter.

Tonight as you hold a candle, know that the light you are seeing
is the light of your inherent nature, Juingong, giving rise to every thing in your life
And returning it to the vast universe within you

Like the offerings you gave tonight, regardless of whether they were large or small,
when you give with complete sincerity, your past debts are repaid,
and your future is brightened.
Then go forward and apply your practice throughout your surroundings.
Practice like this and discover the eternal now.
And then transcend even the eternal now.

-Daehaeng Kun Sunim-