Pine Tree

Japanese : Gankoku ni matsu o uu.
Translation : Plant pine tree deep in the mountain.
Brief explanation : A Zen Master was planting a pine tree in a thickly-wooded mountain. Another Zen Master asked him a question what he was doing with such a meaningless plant. He answered, “First purpose is for having a secluded stage of Zen training in the coming ages. Second purpose is that this pine tree will become a landmark for the others”. The third purpose, he did not mention, but he just wanted to plant this plant in the ground. His plants will bear fruit for his unknown people after his death. We must appreciate and imitate his valuable act without thinking of our own interest.