By Cahty
In the Chinese language, many sayings are in four-character idioms called 成语, or Built Sayings. Some are very descriptive and carry meanings that are instantly recognizable, while others reference history, legend or classical literature that can challenge the uninitiated – like me.
For example, 一针见血 literally translates to “one needlepoke, see blood.” It describes an astute observation that points out the most germane fact about a situation.
A more visual example, 画蛇添足 literally translates to “draw snake, add feet.” It means overdoing something and thereby ruining the effect. It can be about a painting, a story, or a piece of persuasive writing.My mother began to practice calligraphy sometime after she turned 90. Six months ago, I asked her for a sample of her work as a keepsake. She sent me a framed calligraphy of a 4-character idiom, 昼夜不懈 (complex Chinese characters in the photo), which literally translates to “morning, night, never rest (or let your guard down);” in other words, constant vigilance.
I put her writing on top of our mantlepiece. Every time I sat down to watch TV, I’d see it… and feel stressed out. It reminded me that I should be constantly vigilant, yet there I was, kicking back and relaxing. It made me go over in my head what else I hadn’t done that day!
After a while of this, the pressure was getting to me. So I texted Mom to see if she would send me a different sample of her calligraphy, one that was more “zen.” She asked why. I told her. Then she texted back, “That was intended to describe how I see you. You work so hard, morning and night. Just like the idiom says!”
So my mother was complimenting me with her calligraphy. And it wasn’t just any writing sample; it was a custom job. My interpretation was completely off! Rather than telling me to be constantly vigilant, Mom was saying I was that person who was always working, on top of things. Suddenly, I was able to look at that calligraphy and enjoy it. It was a complete mental switch.
Mom is turning 100 this year. Imagine if I hadn’t reached out to her. I might have missed the chance to know the real meaning of her gift. I might have missed the chance to be reminded, every time I look at that piece of writing, that there is always another point of view, another interpretation.
In this Zendo, we talk about staying present and savoring the moment. Now every time I look at Mom’s writing, I savor the moment of recalling this lesson.
Hakone Zendo 