Yang Ki-hun (Seuk-Eun) (Korean, 1843–1919?). In this hanging scroll, an egret walks along the shores of a salt marsh where reeds abundantly grow. Yang treated his subjects of flora and fauna with an observant naturalist’s view, yet his choice of subjects—an egret and reeds—is deeply rooted in traditional symbolic language: the egret stands for the scholarly reclusive life, while reeds indicate humility and modesty. Cleveland Museum of Art.
Two of the most treasured sources of guidance throughout my life, which I frequently call to mind, are my personal motto, Humilitatem Initium Sapientiae, which may be translated as humility is the beginning of wisdom, and the prudential advice offered by the canon, author, and scribe Thomas à Kempis (d. 1471), in De Imitatione Christi: “Study also to guard against and to overcome the faults which in others very frequently displease you. Make the best of every opportunity, so that if you see or hear good example you may be moved to imitate it. On the other hand, take care lest you be guilty of those things which you consider reprehensible, or if you have ever been guilty of them, try to correct yourself as soon as possible. As you see others, so they see you.” These words informed the lyrics of my most recent composition which I then set to music using Udio.com
Lyrics:
In the quiet dawn, wisdom’s voice we hear,
Whispering softly, drawing us near.
In the humble heart, truth finds its place,
Guiding our steps with gentle grace.
Humilitatem Initium Sapientiae,
Through the shadows, a light to guide our way.
In the path of humility, wisdom shines bright,
Leading us forward through the darkest night.
Guard against the faults that others display,
Seek the good examples, and follow their way.
Correct your own missteps, strive to be true,
For as you see others, they also see you.
Humilitatem Initium Sapientiae,
Through the shadows, a light to guide our way.
In the path of humility, wisdom shines bright,
Leading us forward through the darkest night.
With each humble act, our spirits rise,
Touching the heavens, reaching the skies.
In the silence deep, where the soul is free,
Wisdom’s beginning, in humility.
Humilitatem Initium Sapientiae,
Through the shadows, a light to guide our way.
In the path of humility, wisdom shines bright,
Leading us forward through the darkest night.
In humility, we find our start,
With wisdom’s light, within our heart.
Humilitatem Initium Sapientiae,
A guiding star, forever to stay.
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