The heat already risen to 26 degrees by 0800, 32 degrees by the time I arrive at the bottom of the hill, another day f ambulance and fire engines, arriving just as I begin to climb the steps. A slower walk, something different about today, a wander towards the slightly higher hills before taking the back route at Muzhi Shan, wandering the rough paths through the woodland, shimmering light falling upon the shaking leaves, no voices heard, alone upon the path twisting across the slopes.

Back upon the main path, descending towards another detour, a path curving along the hillside, temple roofs shining below, the heat rising further as the path moves beyond the shelter of the hills. Upon the steps there's a display of flowers sitting upon stone, sunlight filtering through branches, deep green moss bringing a poem to mind.


deer park

No one's seen upon the empty mountain,
yet the sound of voice is heard,
reflected light enters the deep forest,
shines, again, luscious green upon moss.

Wang Wei (701- 761)