Joshu's Oak (after Mumonkan 37)

無門關 三十七 

Look out of the window

the garden is barren

of oaks, nor is this

a Temple in China.

If you listen carefully

a thousand branches

bend quietly in the wind,

a simple wave washing

oak leaves onto

expectant soil.

Two Monks Roll Up the Blinds 無門關 二十六

Both are asked

to bring more light

into the hall.

Together each

rolls up his shade.

One’s action is gain

one’s action is loss

there is only one shade

there is only one light.

                 -- Capping Verse for Mumonkan 26 ("The Gateless Gate")