How to Enter into My Heart

My neighbor's sin has built a wall of hatred
leaving me confined outside;
only the power of my forgiveness and love
will take me in.

My neighbor's youth and weakness have built
a wall of contempt;
only the fervor of my mercy will bring me in.

My indifferent heart has built a wall of apathy;
only the strength of my righteousness will lead me in.

My neighbor has remained alien to me;
only the devotion of all of mine will get me
associated with the brother inside, or outside.
 

1959, in Cheongnyang-ni