The Metaphorical Monk

The monk is kneeling on the smooth-worn stone of the courtyard, his back straight yet relaxed. His focus is entirely on a gnarled bonsai tree positioned before him. His gnarled, soil-dusted hands rest on his knees; one holds a small pair of shears, unmoving. He is perfectly still, his calm grey eyes fixed on a single, sun-lit leaf as if in deep contemplation. The thin fabric of his undyed hemp robe shifts gently in the mountain breeze. The only sound from him is the slow, steady rhythm of his breathing. He gives no indication of being aware of anything beyond his silent communion with the tree.