Tang poetry is a sweet spring, and Song lyrics are fragrant blossoms. Gently scooping a handful of spring water and picking up a few petals to brew a cup of tea, the aroma fills the air.
I enjoy reciting "In the winding path, where the seclusion leads to deep, the Buddhist chamber is surrounded by flowers and trees," to feel a unique tranquility; I enjoy reciting "Lifting my head to laugh loudly as I go out, how can we be mere weeds?" to realize a sense of openness; and I enjoy reciting "Struggling to cross, struggling to cross, startling a flock of gulls," to understand a special leisure. Wandering in the ocean of classical poetry, I have realized the philosophies of life.
"Plucking chrysanthemums in the southeast, I leisurely see the southern mountains." This was Tao Yuanming, carrying a hoe along a narrow path, humming a tune, and enjoying the pastoral scenery. I know that such a pastoral life was the paradise of his heart. He refused to bow to five bushels of rice and would not compromise with officialdom, choosing instead his spiritual home. Although he lacked luxury, he had cattle and sheep as companions; although he gave up grand mansions, he found tranquility and freshness in a farmhouse. Reciting his poetry, I learned that one must maintain integrity.
"Flying down three thousand feet, as if the Milky Way fell from the ninth heaven." That was Li Bai. With a jar of wine and a sword, he traveled, danced, and drank, displaying the bravery of Tang and the talent of a banished immortal! Drunken in Chang'an, he was beyond the reach of emperors—that was his freedom! "Even before the Emperor, dogs are allowed; even in Huayin, don't ride a donkey"—that was his unbridled spirit! With his "Letter to the蛮" (Xia Man Shu), he scared away thousands of soldiers—that was his courage! He lived for nature, not fame or wealth, embodying the essence of being unrestrained.
"Since ancient times, everyone must die; leave behind a loyal heart to shine in the history books." That was Wen Tianxiang. On the battlefield, he was calm and composed, commanding troops with composure; in combat, he fought bravely, showing his unwavering loyalty. Despite defeat, he refused to surrender, sacrificing everything for his country, his spirit forever etched in history. He lived out the words, "Since ancient times, everyone must die; leave behind a loyal heart to shine in the history books," and demonstrated Sima Qian's wisdom: "Every man must die, but some deaths are as light as a feather, while others are as heavy as Mount Tai." Through his poems, I learned the importance of patriotism.
These classical poems are the precious spiritual heritage left by our ancestors. By reciting them, I have understood their pursuits and realized the philosophies of life. May these poems be a bright lamp, forever lighting my way forward!
