Taiwan

In Xiushui the scent of lilies fills the air

in Xiushui life moves steadily

you take your shoes off outside

and people are respectful

I visit Lukang’s temple

people are happy there

happiness is the point, is it not?

and Lukang has charm

On to a mountain retreat

warmly welcomed

and then it’s over

On to Taipei

the Grand Hotel looms over all

as does 101, once the tallest building in the world

photographers take aim

I visit the Wu sisters, Saraha runs the gallery

showing contemporary Buddhist art works

her sister Ruby prepares Matcha

drunk with two hands to steady concentration and appreciation

and Hsiao Ro arranges flowers

the Wu sisters work hard

to bring beauty and spirit to their isle