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Here, in this sequestered close,
Bloom the hyacinth and rose;
Here beside the modest stock
Flaunts the flaring hollyhock;
Here, without a pang, one sees
Ranks, conditions, and degrees.

Here, in alleys cool and green,
Far ahead the thrush is seen;
Here along the southern wall
Keeps the bee his festival;
All is quiet else - afar
Sounds of toil and turmoil are.
(from “A Garden Song” by Henry Austin Dobson)

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I own a solace shut within my heart,
A garden full of many a quaint delight
And warm with drowsy, poppied sunshine; bright,
Flaming with lilies out of whose cups dart
Shining things
With powdered wings.
(Amy Lowell)

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Wang Xizhi by Qian Xuan 1235-1305

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At a certain monastery the monks had a vow of silence, but were allowed to say just two words every ten years.

After his first ten years was up, one monk went to the head monk who asked him what his two words were.

He replied, "Bed hard!"

Ten years later he again appeared before the head and this time his two words were "Food stinks!"

After another ten years had passed, he again reported to the head monk's office.

"What are your two words this time?" he was asked.

"I quit!" was the reply.

"And good riddance," said the head monk, "You've done nothing but complain since you came here!"

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This slide show "Lotus Flowers and Water Garden" was uploaded by DebSharpL

The music is by Enya

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"By the Lotus Pond" every Tuesday and Friday