Saturday, December 12, 2009
Advice
Po Chü-i (772–846), Reflections (tr. Burton Watson):
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Past events—don't think back on them;
thinking of them brings too much sorrow and pain.
Things to come—don't anticipate;
anticipating too will breed fret and worry.
Best just sit with a blank mind,
best just to flop down in bed.
Food comes? open your mouth;
sleep comes? shut your eyes—
both of prime importance to the body,
sleep sound, take care to eat hearty!
Forget thoughts, let things work out as they will;
go along with fate, long life or short.
And if a mood of elation should strike you,
then wild songs and a helping of wine!
