If you believe there is something
More precious than your life,
You will come to know what true confidence is,
And you will grow bold.

What can be more precious than your life?
Your unchanging essence,
Your true self,
That will last beyond the expiration
Of your body.

If you hold fast to your essence,
If you act in its best interest always,
Of what can you be afraid?
For nothing can harm it,
Or tarnish it.

If you keep sweeping away the dust,
The negative thoughts
And emotions
And attachments,
That hides your true self from the world
So that it shines beyond the inner recesses of your heart,
You will always embody confidence and love
And hope.

~ Ilchi Lee