The human mind is like the earth. It possesses Buddha-nature and oceans of wisdom but is filled with the worthless debris of egotism and has lost its usefulness. If we use the shovel of humility to dig out the dust of arrogance and restore the mind to its original state, our Buddha-nature and wisdom will shine through.

       The humble are wise; the conceited are most foolish.

       The arrogant are not only ignorant but also mean-spirited.

       The meek have a sense of shame. Often, we become shameless narcissists, forgetting that we, too, are iniquitous mortals who require the salvation of Amitabha Buddha.

       Like the frozen river in early spring, underneath the ice flows the warm water. When the deliverance of the Buddha fills our hearts, the ice of arrogance will melt and disappear. 

       Humility, modesty, and non-complacency are essential.

       Only with an open mind may we receive blessings from all the living things in heaven and earth.

       Only with an open mind can we have the space to maneuver, to progress, or to back away.

       Only with an open mind may we open up all possibilities.

       Humility is not only charity but also helps us endure hardships.

       Yet, arrogance brings nothing but a traumatic ordeal and prompt failure.

(Translated by the Pure Land School Translation Team,
edited by Householder Ronald D. DiVestea)