"(《世界人权宣言》) 花园可能很韩国但甜点却是欧式的。奶油蛋糕和糖--韩国人舌尖上的新口味。我刚来韩国的时候,面包很少见;现在有了 Kim Young Soo 烤的面包,我再也不能吃面包了。糖尿病(2 型)要求更严格:无糖、无盐。在经历了一次严重的低血糖--救护车和其他一切--之后,我给自己制定了一个大多数人都会觉得毫无乐趣可言的养生计划。幸运的是,我有韩国人的过去。
“O you lingering who do not think of death. While indulging in the useless things of this life, you are careless in wasting your eminently auspicious opportunity. If you return from this life empty-handed. Then surely your aim will be wrong.”
Ohm Mani Padme Hum.
Ohm Mani Padme Hum. What is my goal? Writing The Koreans and I, a journey that mirrors my own quest for wisdom. As I delve deeper into this sea of knowledge, I find myself drawn to the Mantifang—the legendary court where Yellow Emperor Huang Di (2698-2598 BC) sought counsel from priests, monks, Shamanic intermediaries, Mudangs, and leaders of all faiths.
Choose spiritual transitions.
It is here, in this metaphorical assembly of knowledge, that I seek to anchor my thoughts. As a personal vow to this journey, I intend to tattoo the sacred ‘uhm’ symbol on my hand—a reminder of the unity of all things and the impermanence of life. This act, simple yet profound, is my way of carrying the wisdom of the ages with me, even in a place where the Mudang’s song no longer echoes, nor the tak tak of the moktak sounds.
Ji Jang Bul looks down at me at Bogwang Sa.
Perhaps it’s a bit opportunistic to have such a tattoo engraved. Maybe even a little pretentious. But for now, let me softly chant “나무 지장 불” (Na-mu Ji-jang Bul) as I hear Jin-do barking in the distance along the banks of the Seongsaheon River.
Ji Jang Bul, also known as Kṣitigarbha, is the Bodhisattva of the Underworld, Protector of the Dead, and the Guardian of Travelers. He made a profound vow to never attain Buddhahood until all beings are freed from the sufferings of hell. His role extends to guiding and protecting those who journey, whether across physical landscapes or through spiritual realms. As I chant his name, I reflect on his endless compassion and the sense of safety he offers to those on any path, feeling deeply connected to the journey that lies ahead. The spiritual transition that Korea and writing brings.