Someday I'll be a weather-beaten skull resting on a grass pillow, Serenaded by a stray bird or two. Kings and commoners end up the same, No more enduring than last night's dream.
When all thoughtsAre exhaustedI slip into the woodsAnd gatherA pile of shepherd's purse. Like the little streamMaking its wayThrough the mossy crevicesI, too, quietlyTurn clear and transparent.
mind
Too lazy to be ambitious,I let the world take care of itself. Ten days' worth of rice in my bag; a bundle of twigs by the fireplace. Why chatter about delusion and enlightenment?Listening to the night rain on my roof,I sit comfortably, with both legs stretched out.
buddhism buddhist hermit japan japanese monk philosophers philosophy poem poems poetry ryokan seers zen zen-monk
Why do you so earnestly seek the truth in distant places?Look for delusion and truth in thebottom of your own heart.
meaning purpose searching truth
In this world of dreams, drifting off still more; and once again speaking and dreaming of dreams. Just let it be.
dreams
Keep your heart clearAnd transparent, And you willNever be bound.A single disturbed thoughtCreates ten thousand distractions.
authenticity honesty meditation thinking thought
The plants and flowersI raised about my hutI now surrenderTo the willOf the wind
old-songs parenthood sword-sentiments transcendence wind