October 24th, 2022
Ryokan (1758–1831)
In the still night by the vacant window,
Wrapped in monk’s robe I sit in meditation.
Navel and nostrils line up straight;
Ears paired to the slope of the shoulders.
Window whitens – the moon comes up;
Rain’s stopped, but drops go on dripping.
Wonderful – the moon of this moment,
Distant, vast.