Editor’s Note :
Chinese culture lives not only in grand narratives, but also in carved words, calligraphy, painting, and music—where its spirit and beauty quietly endure.
Cultural Express launches its new Culture column to rediscover the warmth and elegance of Chinese culture in everyday life.
In this issue, 92-year-old Professor Teresa Sun reflects on twelve woodcarved classical inscriptions by her late husband,
Terry Sun, revealing the warmth and beauty of Chinese culture.
This carving reflects a state of mind: “Peaceful in mind, I forget loneliness. Heaven rewards my good health for being poor and virtuous.” This was the mindset of my late husband Terry after he retired at 63.
Sea View, Soul Rest
After 35 years of hard work, he was finally able to stay home and enjoy the ocean view from our backyard, watching the boats go by.
There was no need to earn a living or rush off to business trips; he could relax completely, read, and tend to his hobbies.
His retirement life should be celebrated like that of the prominent poet Tao Yuan-Ming of fourth-century China.
Garden Return, Inner Freedom
Tao was famous for his exquisite literary works. He was known as the “Garden Poet” and one of China’s most celebrated essayists, especially for his famous work, “Return to My Garden.”
In it, he expresses his deep desire to return to his garden, long neglected and overgrown.
He reflects on how sadly he had allowed his mind to be enslaved by worldly duties, keeping him from tending to what he truly loved.
Choosing a lifestyle away from the vanity of the secular world reflects a Buddhist sense of detachment, while embracing nature to soothe the mind echoes the philosophy of Daoism.
Once freed from official duties and worldly struggle, Tao felt carefree and at peace, having transcended secular conflict and returned to eternal Nature.
Moral Grace, Quiet Light
One of Tao’s most admired sayings is “not to sacrifice one’s integrity for five pecks of rice.” This reveals the independent spirit of Chinese intellectuals, known for moral rigor, spiritual depth, and inner freedom.
This perspective has fostered a warm and peaceful state of mind that has resonated for generations.
Remembering that Terry enjoyed carving and practicing calligraphy for at least 15 years, I feel happy for his contentment and accomplishments.
He had chosen to embrace a Daoist vision of life, much like the spirit of Tao. This is why he created this piece.( Article 7 of 12)
Click to Read More :
Article 1 of 12—May Flowers Bloom, the Moon Stay Full, and Life Be Long
Article 2 of 12—Heaven Moves, Man Strives
Article 3 of 12—The Confucian Way
Article 4 of 12—Nature’s Dao, Spirit’s Rest
Article 5 of 12—Matter of the world and my spirit will last forever
Article 6 of 12—Long Life Shared Moonlight
About the Author :
Teresa Sun
Teresa Sun received her bachelor’s degree in Chinese literature from Taiwan Normal University, an M.A. in education from UCLA, and a doctorate from Seton Hall University.
She taught Chinese language and culture at California State universities and Whittier College for nearly 25 years, and was active in Chinese language education, cultural promotion, and community service. She has published papers and four books.
Terry Sun
Terry Sun graduated from National Taiwan University in mechanical engineering and continued his studies at USC. An outstanding HVAC engineer, he was named a Fellow of ASHRAE.
After retirement, he developed a unique artistic style combining wood carving and Chinese calligraphy, and his works were exhibited in museums and institutions.