In Place 42

In summer she, grunting, hauls 
 
large stones from the dry wash

up to the hut to make steps

for those who keep to a path




She had no idea she could move anything so heavy. Samu with appropriate sweat.

Back by the stone bridge, mind returns.
Where now the things that troubled me?
— Han Shan (tr. Red Pine)

 

In Place 41

Year round, here, she can make

yard tea; always something green:

fir needles, blackberry leaves, nettles --

easier in high summer





Hiding from the westering sun, she hangs shades from the eaves.



    Yunyan was boiling some tea. 
    Daowu asked who he was making it for. 
    Yunyan answered, "nobody special."
    "Why doesn't he make it for himself, then?"

    -- Soto Zen Ancestors in China, Mitchell, 72.