Your defilements harder to dissolve
can still be transformed,
such as anger becoming drive.
Shilashanti
The classic Hulk problem
is that people tend
to remember him more
than Bruce Banner.
Even if the Hulk
had some righteous anger
and even timely action,
his rage is remembered more.
Even if the Hulk
actually saves lives at times,
with swift and strong responses,
his destruction is remembered more.
Even if Bruce Banner
is an intelligent gentleman
with the best of intentions,
he lives in the Hulk’s shadow.
Thus is it said that,
‘With one thought of the angry mind arising,
its fire burns away meritorious virtues’ forest’
(一念嗔心起，火烧功德林),
with need to tame and direct the Hulk’s power through Banner.
Reflect on the great harms of hatred,
and contemplate the greater benefits of calmness.
Refrain from rampaging with clear mindfulness of Buddha,
the one you should emulate.
Your defilements yet to dissolve
or transform to virtues,
might grow to destroy you.
Shilashanti
