In this fast-paced, high-tech era, people are always surrounded by countless electronic information, and mobile phones, computers and other devices seem to have become a part of our bodies.
However, in such an environment, I often feel an indescribable tiredness and emptiness.
In the dead of night, I wonder if I should slow down and find a quieter, more authentic way of life.
One evening, a sudden rain washed away the dust of the city and the irritability in my heart.
The sky was shining after the rain, and I stood on the side of the road and was fascinated by the beautiful scenery. At that moment, I suddenly realized that it had been a long time since I had enjoyed the beauty of nature so quietly.
At that moment, I felt a peace of mind and a wish: if I could have a small courtyard of my own, it would be great! I can meditate in the courtyard and feel the gift of nature; I can also read in the small courtyard and let my mind swim in the ocean of knowledge.
01. Meditation, simple and far-reaching
Meditation may seem simple, but it is actually profound. It doesn't need ornate decorations, it doesn't need complicated rituals, just a heart that is willing to be still.
Gao Panlong of the Ming Dynasty once said: "The method of meditation does not need to be arranged at all, just ordinary and silent." This phrase speaks to the simple beauty of meditation and reveals the true meaning of meditation.
Sitting quietly in the courtyard, I could feel the wind caressing, hear the birds singing, and see the flowers blooming.
This experience made me feel like I was one with nature and made me cherish every moment even more. Meditation is not only a physical relaxation, but also a spiritual cleansing.
It taught me to let go of distractions and focus on my heart.
02. Reading, wisdom and enlightenment
Complementing meditation is reading. Zhu Xi, a great Confucian in the Song Dynasty, advocated "half a day of meditation and half a day of studying", believing that such a way of life could make people feel calm, and then better think and learn.
I think so. Reading can not only increase knowledge, but also broaden horizons and enlighten the soul.
In the shade of a tree in the small courtyard, I opened a book and followed the author's pen into another world.
I was moved by the stories in the book, and I benefited from the wisdom in the book. Reading books has taught me to think, but also to be tolerant and understanding. Whenever I encounter confusion or trouble, I look for answers and solace in books.
03, small courtyard, poetic and Zen
Owning a small courtyard is like having a poetic and Zen world. Here, I can feel the natural beauty of "a hundred flowers in spring, a moon in autumn, a cool breeze in summer and snow in winter"; I can also experience the tranquility and detachment of "staying in the human realm, without the noise of cars and horses".
Every grass, tree, brick and tile in the small courtyard is full of the breath of life and the charm of culture.
I planted a few bamboos in the small courtyard, they are tall and elegant, as if they are my spiritual pillars; I planted a bunch of chrysanthemums in the corner, and they bloomed proudly, as if telling me to be strong in the face of life's challenges.
Sitting and reading in such an environment, I felt as if I had traveled through a tunnel of time and space and had a spiritual dialogue with the ancients. I felt their wisdom and feelings, and I also felt their love and pursuit of life.
epilogue
"There is a small courtyard, half a day of meditation, half a day of study", this way of life has allowed me to find a spiritual home and spiritual sustenance.
In this small courtyard, I learned to let go of distractions and focus on my heart, I learned to think about life, enlighten wisdom, and learn to appreciate nature, feel poetry and Zen.
I believe that as long as we are willing to slow down and calm down to experience the beauty of life, we can find our own peace and contentment.