The Stone Bridge of Zhaozhou
To one let down after only hearing its fame, Zhaozhou said: "This bridge carries donkeys across, and carries horses across."
Having built up expectations from a name, am I scorning the plain thing that quietly does its job?
📝Reflection
A man came to see the famous stone bridge where Zhaozhou lived, and was disappointed: "They speak of Zhaozhou's renowned bridge, but it's only a plank crossing." Zhaozhou replied, "You see only the plank and miss the stone bridge." Then he added: "This bridge carries donkeys across, and carries horses across." To one expecting splendid fame, Zhaozhou awakens the essence of a bridge: its worth lies not in fine appearance but in quietly carrying everything across. Donkey or horse, noble or lowly, it carries them all without discrimination. We forever pin hopes on names and surfaces, then feel let down. Yet greatness lies in fulfilling one's function without fanfare. Zhaozhou's bridge points to the true usefulness dwelling within the ordinary.
🌱Apply It Today
If a person or thing disappointed you today for "not living up to its name," ask again: "Beyond the surface, what does this quietly accomplish?"
This verse is read as universal humanistic wisdom, not religion — no faith is promoted, and the reflection is 100% original ONGO content.
