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Milarepa
The
Sufferings of Human Beings
Shiwa
Aui said, " Now please tell us about the sufferings of human beings."
In answer, Milarepa sang:
We human
beings are endowed with power
To do good, or evil deeds;
This is because our body (personality)
Is made of all Six Elements.
You junior
Repas who desire to be great scholars
Should know the 'Kernel and shell' of Buddhism.
Lest learning lead you only to confusion.
Knowing
not the root of mind,
Useless is it to mediatate for years.
Without sincerity and willingness,
Rich offerings have no real meaning.
Without
giving impartial aid to all,
Patronage of one's favourite is wrong.
Knowing not the right counsel for each man,
Blunt talk will only bring trouble and discord.
He who knows
the appropriate way
To help men of diverse dispositions,
Can use expedient words for kind and fruitful purposes.
He who knows but little of himself
Can harm many by his ignorance.
When good-will arises in one's mind,
Stones, trees and earth all become seeds of virtue.
Again, an
over-punctilious person
Knows not how to relax;
A gluttonous dog knows not what is hunger;
A brazen Guru knows not what is fear.
Rich men are wretched creatures with their money,
Poor men are wretched creatures without money.
Alas, with, or without money, both are miserable!
Happiness will come, dear children,
If you can practise the Dharma.
Remember then, my words, and practise with perseverance.
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