June 26^th, 2026

First blooming in the Western Paradise,
The lotus has delighted us for ages.
Its white petals are covered with dew,
Its jade green leaves spread out
Over the pond,
And its pure fragrance perfumes the wind.
Cool and majestic,
It rises from the murky water.
The sun sets behind the mountains
But I remain in the darkness,
Too captivated to leave.

Ryokan (1758-1831)