四明尊者教行錄 5.42

5.42

[I, Zhili,] humbly reflect: An aged body amid forests and springs, entrusted to the bounds of incense and lamps, I look up to the bright moon that shines from afar upon my window, and gaze upon the white clouds as they ascend high toward the imperial capital; in vain I mimic the sunflower's turning, and feel ashamed at being uselessly tied like a bitter gourd. I humbly consider: Your Excellency the Palace Library Supervisor acts with resolve, cultivating virtue from sincerity into brilliance; you are the building timber of all the Huaxia lands, the wooden clapper of the nine provinces. You embellish the great undertaking, wielding your vibrant brush in the Jade Hall; you bring ease and relief to this enlightened era, realizing imperial enlightenment in the celestial chambers. In this way you ride upon the Way, fulfilling the expectations of all who look up to you; I have long revered your household, my heart ever suspended with longing. As for me, Zhili, with a heart of cold ashes I lodge in this world, honing my conduct by taking the scriptures first. Cutting cypress as a substitute for incense, I unworthily succeed the ancestral master of Tiantai; carving a lotus to serve as a water clock, I presumptuously carry on the remaining legacy of Mount Lu. How could I have expected that an empty name, mistakenly spread, would reach far into the Secret Archives, bringing about the bestowal of a monastic robe and a gift of kind words! Receiving the imperial decree with both hands, I was moved to the marrow; though I keep it in my hamper, I still fear it may bring misfortune upon my body. When I recall Zhirand of the Liang, how could he compare with this? When I reflect back on Peigong's subtle regard, something like that was still lighter. You continue the lecturing duties at Shanyin and act as host to the Lotus Society. Considering my humble frame, that I should receive this gift is unworthy of praise; yet surely the great teaching's further brightening has its true origin. To approach the Orchid Terrace and submit my visiting card cannot fulfill my inner feelings; perching in a stone chamber to contemplate the mind, I forever hope for your external protection. I respectfully submit this letter to express my thanks, humbly hoping for Your Excellency's kind notice.