弘明集 6.34

6.34

Shaoxi sends this letter to the various wandering scholars, saying: Zhang Rong speaks. A bird sings mournfully when about to die; a person speaks good words when approaching his end. Recently, as illness has grown severe and life has declined, this is also a case of the soul lingering for only a few breaths. Moreover, it is like a frightened boat losing its rudder in an empty gorge, or the foot of a mountain without bonds in the middle of a marsh. Therefore, in the brief time of looking at shadows, though only an inch, there is always urgency, unable to mend its passing. Wishing that the remaining intentions after my spirit's departure serve as a guide for my younger brothers and nephews, I have composed these Family Regulations. I frequently chant its one chapter on 'Penetrating the Source of the Two Paths'. I now present it to you worthy gentlemen to see what you think of it.