Templestay at Mihwangsa
By Kim Sun-ae
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My first impression of Mihwangsa was a temple in a beautiful forest with many birds. The way up to the temple from its One Pillar Gate is surrounded by many trees including camellias. As I stood in the path, the sounds of the birds were heard here and there.
Birds of various colors fly into the temple. During my stay at the temple, a small bird sometimes visited the tree in front of my room. Even though I stood near the bird, it did not fly away, perhaps knowing that I cherished it.
Mihwang Temple in Haenam, South Jeolla Province, was built more than 1,200 years ago in the Silla period. Walking slowly in the temple, I heard the gentle tinkling of wind chimes. Everything is beautiful. Behind the temple is a magnificent view of Mount Dalma unfolds.
On the second day, I walked on Mount Dalma with other templestay participants. In the middle of the path, piles of large rocks appeared, which gave me an unrealistic feeling. We walked for several hours in the green forest with spring flowers.
The top of Mount Dalma overlooks many islands including Jindo, Wando and Jejudo. The islands on the sea seem to be separate from one another, but are all connected in the sea. Likewise, we appear to be independent of one another, but are dependent on one another.
I could stay at Mihwang Temple comfortably thanks to many people. The food provided at the temple is very delicious. The vegan diet consists of glossy rice and diverse fresh fruits and vegetables. Thanks to the people who work at the temple kitchen and who sent rice, apples and so on from various parts of the country, I could receive new energy each day during my stay.
A bus which goes to the Haenam bus terminal via Mihwang Temple comes four times a day. Travelers without a driver's license like me are deeply grateful to the drivers of public transportation. Without them, we cannot travel like this.
I was waiting for the bus in front of Mihwang Temple. Because I had some time, I picked up cigarette butts discarded in the parking lot. As my surroundings became clean, I felt better. A volunteer at the temple seemed to have a good influence on me. When we participants walked in Mt. Dalma, the volunteer accompanied us and showed us the way. I was impressed by the volunteer who not only helped us but also picked up litter on the mountain. We can positively affect one another with our beautiful words and deeds such as encouraging words or a radiant smile.
After listening to a Dharma talk by the abbot of Mihwang Temple, I was returning to my room. When I was passing by the front yard of the Main Hall, the white full moon came into view beyond the clouds. The tranquil mind like the moon which is seen when clouds go by. The mind is always shining, whether there are clouds or not.
Kim Sun-ae (blog.naver.com/dancinglf) is a writer and translator.