October 05^th, 2026

The fuel in the tea brazier is burnt out,
So I collect pine needles,
The fields of medicinal plants are empty,
So I cut vegetable roots.

Naturally dull, I’ve forgotten Zen activities,
My gate is darkened at noon by
The shade of ancient trees.

White clouds impart a sense of peace
To my Zen meditation,
Green grasses suffice to make a rug for my guests.
What I have collected is a hundred years
Of emptiness.