Trees in Bloom

I

Brightly shine the blooming trees,

They have taken root right here.

Their blossoms radiant this morning

By night already they have died.

Human life is like a visit;

There comes a time of decrepitude.

In silence, very much I brood,

By this my inmost heart is grieved.

II

Brightly shine the blooming trees

Right here where they have taken root.

This morning blossoms in profusion

No longer there, alas, this evening.

Steadfast or pliant depends on the man,

For fortune or trouble there is no gate.

On what rely, ifnot the Way?

For what to strive, if not the good?

III

Ah, like a little child am I

So crude in manners, lacking polish.

The passing years have fowed away,

And nothing added to my stock.

I forgot to be unfagging

Content to have my daily drink.

What I carry here insideIs worry and an inner guilt.

The Former Teacher left the message,

One that I may not forget:'

lf he's still unknown at forty

That's no one you need respect."

Grease my carriage whcels for me

Whip up my famous racing horses

A thousand miles is far to go,

But how dare I not make the trip?