“The most precious thing in life is its uncertainty.” Kenko
In the 14th century, poet and Buddhist monk, Yoshido Kendo, wrote thoughts on life, nature, manners, humility, and simplicity. He lived in exile at a cottage where he composed his essays.
Kenko used "zuihitsu" - follow the brush - as a way to compose. He painted thoughts as they arrived to him on scraps of paper. Then attached them to his cottage walls. A poet friend collected them from the walls and "Tsurrezuregusa" (essays in idleness) became a part of Japanese literature.
Kenko disliked perfection, believing asymmetry and irregularity became better goals. His imagery included moons in the clouds, cherry blossoms strewn and faded on the earth. He admired the uncertainty of a branch about to blossom.
How will you follow the brush today and create?
A certain recluse said no bonds attached him to this life and the only thing he would regret leaving was the sky. Are we only to look at flowers in full bloom, at the moon when it is clear?
To sit alone in the lamplight with a book spread out before you, and hold intimate
conversation with men of unseen generations - such is a pleasure beyond compare.
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