Tranquil Morning Walk in the Eastern Suburbs

Confined to official duties all year round, I find solace in the expansive and serene dawn of the suburbs. The willows scatter in the gentle breeze, and the green hills calm my thoughts. Resting in the thickets, I am at ease, and following the stream, I wander back and forth. Light rain envelops the fragrant fields, and the spring cuckoos sing from an unknown place. I often yearn for seclusion, but my duties keep me busy. Finally, I will resign and build a cottage, aspiring to follow Tao Yuanming’s example and embrace a life of simplicity.

The Burden of Official Duties

For much of the year, my life is consumed by the demands of my official position. The confines of my office feel restrictive, leaving little room for personal peace and reflection. This unending routine of bureaucracy often leaves me yearning for a breath of fresh air, a reprieve from the monotony and pressures of administrative life.

Escaping to Nature

One morning, I decided to escape the stifling confines of my office and venture into the eastern suburbs. The break of dawn in the countryside is a refreshing change, bringing a sense of freedom and clarity. The early morning light, clear and invigorating, sweeps away the mental cobwebs accumulated from endless paperwork and formalities.

The Soothing Scenery

As I stroll through the countryside, the gentle breeze carries with it the scent of willows swaying gracefully. The sight of these trees, dancing in the wind, is a soothing balm to my weary soul. The tranquil green hills, with their serene and unassuming beauty, help to quiet the constant chatter of my thoughts, offering a moment of true peace and contemplation.

Finding Rest Among the Trees

I find a comfortable spot among the trees and decide to rest. The simple act of sitting quietly, surrounded by nature, brings a profound sense of calm. The natural surroundings offer a stark contrast to the rigid structure of my daily life, reminding me of the simple pleasures that often go unnoticed.

Wandering Along the Stream

After resting, I continue my walk, following the course of a nearby stream. The path along the water is a metaphor for my thoughts, meandering and free. I wander aimlessly, letting the tranquility of the setting wash over me, unhurried and unburdened by the usual constraints of time and duty.

The Freshness After the Rain

A light rain begins to fall, its gentle touch adding a fresh scent to the already fragrant fields. The rain, like a painter’s brush, enhances the colors of the landscape, making everything appear more vibrant and alive. The fields, now glistening with raindrops, exude a refreshing vitality that is both invigorating and calming.

The Song of the Spring Cuckoos

In the midst of this serene setting, the song of the spring cuckoos reaches my ears. Their melodious calls seem to come from nowhere and everywhere, adding a musical backdrop to the natural symphony around me. The cuckoos’ song is a reminder of the simple joys of life, often overshadowed by the complexities and demands of my official responsibilities.

The Yearning for Seclusion

Despite my deep appreciation for this moment of tranquility, I am acutely aware of the demands that await me. My heart longs for a life of seclusion, away from the incessant pressures of duty. Yet, each time I consider retreating to a simpler life, the realities of my responsibilities pull me back, preventing me from fully embracing the peace I so desire.

Aspirations of Resignation

Eventually, I know that I will have to make a choice. The allure of a life free from the constraints of official duties is strong. Inspired by the poet Tao Yuanming, who famously retired to a life of rustic simplicity, I dream of building a modest cottage and dedicating my days to peaceful contemplation and the appreciation of nature.

Following Tao Yuanming’s Example

Tao Yuanming’s life, characterized by its simplicity and harmony with nature, is a model I aspire to follow. His famous declaration of building a hut in the midst of human habitation yet free from the noise of horses and carriages resonates deeply with me. It symbolizes a life where one can find peace and contentment in the midst of simplicity, a life where the beauty of nature and the purity of thought take precedence over the demands of society.

Embracing a Life of Simplicity

The prospect of such a life is both appealing and daunting. It requires a significant shift in priorities and a willingness to let go of the security and prestige that come with my current position. Yet, the more I immerse myself in the tranquil beauty of the eastern suburbs, the more convinced I become that this is the path I must take.

My morning walk in the eastern suburbs has reinforced my desire to seek a life of simplicity and peace. The natural beauty of the countryside, with its calming influence and gentle rhythms, offers a stark contrast to the hectic pace of my official duties. Inspired by the timeless wisdom of Tao Yuanming, I am determined to embrace a life where the quiet joys of nature and the tranquility of the soul are the highest priorities. In doing so, I hope to find a deeper, more enduring sense of fulfillment and happiness.