Though I think not
To think about it,
I do think about it
And shed tears
Thinking about it.

– Ryokan (1758-1831)

There is nothing in the world
So weak as water,
Nor anything strong enough
To overcome it.
The person of great wisdom
Is like water which,
Though benefiting all things,
Never strives.

– Lao-tzu

I lie at peace in moonlight.
Or, hearing water plashing on the rock,
Sit up.

– Ryushu Shutaku (1308–1388)

The substance of a sage
Is nameless and cannot be spoken of;
The empty door of truth as it really is
Cannot be tarried in.

– Pai-chang (720–814)

Who can break from the snares of the world
And sit with me among the white clouds?

– Han-shan

shall climb up the magnificent mountain peak,
To await the arrival of a solitary crane.

– Shide (8th century)

With the moon emerged,
My mind is motionless.
Sitting on this frosty seat,
No further dream of fame.
The forest, the mountain
Follow their ancient ways,
And through the long spring day,
Not even a shadow of a bird.

– Reizan (1411)

If your ears see,
And eyes hear,
Not a doubt you’ll cherish

– Daito Kokushi

Someday our hair will turn gray,
Yet the flowers will be this red each year;

– Fa Yen (885–958)

One and the same breeze passes
Over the pines on the mountain
And the oak trees in the valley;
Why do they give different notes?

– Shinkage-ryu