universe earth star sky mountain river
summit valley cloud fog house moss
human dog top bottom stone monkey
together balanced all eternally

                                   Anonymous Author
                                   9th century, Japan

I have loved this poem since I was 18 years old, and it has inspired many of my works. Reading it always fills my heart with warmth, nostalgia and peace.
O every being in Nature, bring your miraculous sounds and radiance together in harmony forever! An unknown poet from long ago heard the imperceptible voice of all beings and wove their songs into words of prayer. How light and beautiful they sound! I never cease to feel drawn to this poem. The harmony it expresses is one of my eternal themes.