March 23rd, 2015

Clear dawn enters the ancient temple.
First sun brightens the lofty grove.
Winding paths lead off to secret places.
Ch’an chamber: flowers deep among trees.
In mountain light, singing joy is bird-nature.
Pool shadows: empty, the hearts of men.
All sounds here fall to silence.
All that remains: the bell-stone’s tone.

Ch’ang Chien (708-765)