Since my barn burned down
I have a better view of the moon
蔵焼けて障るものなき月見哉
Mizuta Masahide 水田 正秀 1657–1723, Japanese poet, samurai, and student of Matsuo Bashō 松尾 芭蕉 1644–1697
Moon, Nagasawa Rosetsu 長沢芦雪 1754–1799.
Tradition of Japanese people has been to live in awareness of the unpredictability of nature and the transitory essence of life. Earthquakes, tsunamis, typhoons, and fires can destroy whole cities and take tens of thousands of lives in the blink of an eye. Instead of responding from bleakness, the Japanese tend to foster a culture from deep appreciation of the beauty and transience inherent in all things; with every daily act and aspect to be seen as a never-to-be-repeated opportunity to experience beauty and profound understanding. Modern societies, particularly in the West, tend to build structure that protects from uncertainty and impermanence.
Step out of whatever personal or societal cocoon for a moment each of these upcoming autumn evenings to experience what you can of the moon’s presence. It may be clear, dim, hidden by clouds, or invisible, but it is there, mirroring light in silent space.
