The Gods’ Favorite Daughter

Mountain mist

Floats above green pastures,

Straw hats

Peek above morning fog,

Chanting monks

Encourage the rising sun,

White cranes

Call for clouds to weep,

Gentle rain

Breaths life into ancient trees,

Bamboo carts

Drift into emerald valleys,

Humble peasants

Pluck straw from golden fields,

Restless children

Turn chopsticks in hand,

Patient mothers

Cook rice in large pots,

Disciplined fathers

Watch over with stern eyes,

Skilled grandmothers

Weave silk on wooden looms,

Wise grandfathers

Pray at family shrines,

The copper sun

Creeps below grey mountains,

The silver moon

Rises meekly in its place,

White clouds

Take the form of stars,

Young boys

Set street lanterns aflame,

The immortal gods

Keep China in their perfect gaze.