The new imperial garden was prepared for opening for three years. Finally, all the work was completed, and the emperor invited all the nobles to admire the beauty of the garden. Everyone was delighted and showered with compliments. But the emperor was interested in the opinion of Master Ling-chi, who was considered an unsurpassed expert in this art form. When the emperor addressed Ling-chi, everyone present turned around and silence reigned. Lin-chi replied:
“It’s strange, but I don’t see a single dry leaf.” How can life exist without death? Because there are no dry leaves, the garden is dead. I think it was swept very thoroughly this morning. Order some dry leaves to be brought.
When the leaves were brought and scattered, the wind began to play with them. The rustle of leaves - and the garden came to life!
Master said:
- Everything is fine now. Your garden is beautiful, but it was too well maintained. Art becomes greatest when it does not reveal itself.
Translated from Russian · original on wisdomlib.ru