"Blue Bamboo" by Chi-Jen Liu
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LISTEN TO THE BAMBOO
Bamboo represents someone of many virtues. Its hollow stem symbolizes a person's humbleness as well as an open mind. Its uprightness is considered an individual's strength and integrity. Its flexible quality is one's ability to adapt and accommodate. Being likened to bamboo means one is a wonderfully balanced human being.
"Lotus Bamboo Friendship" by Chi-Jen Liu · Details
"Lotus Bamboo Friendship" is a pictoresque scene of pink lotus blossoms that is gently enhanced by a frame of bamboo. The contrast of the fluttering lotus and rigid bamboo is symbolic of the yin and yang energies that compose and create the balance that occurs in Nature.
Taoist philosophy is conveyed through the play of words. Bamboo is "zu" in Chinese, which sounds like the word for "contentment." Chi-Jen Liu shares: "Seeing bamboo we feel happy; finding contentment within yourself you have happiness!" Lotus flower is "he hua" in Chinese, which sounds like the words for "social balance" and "prosperity." Chi-Jen Liu says: "Mutual friendships are mutually beneficial; having friends you will have wealth!"
"Simple Life Brings Happiness Bamboo" by Chi-Jen Liu
Young bamboo grow out of ancient stones. Sometimes the most humble elements communicate the deepest messages.
Speaking about his piece, "Simple Life Brings Happiness Bamboo," Chi-Jen Liu reflects: "Before you fall asleep, forget everything and everyone. When you wake up, you start a new life. A simple life brings happiness; it turns sadness into happiness. It's easy to be happy when you are young. It's easy to be happy when you are old. The secret to happiness is living a simple life. Happiness comes from keeping life simple, no matter your age."
"Colorful Bamboos of Success" by Chi-Jen Liu · Details
"Colorful Bamboos of Success" (above) and "Colorful Bamboo of Growing Happiness" (below) both depict a row of robust bamboo all splashed in primary colors. In this context, they represent business growth and scholarship. Bamboo's unique hollow structure also symbolizes an easy and self-contented life, and their many leaves represent having many friends and family.
"Colorful Bamboo of Growing Happiness" by Chi-Jen Liu · Details
Chi-Jen Liu explains: "The colorful splashes mean a colorful life... In this world, humans – past, present, future – work hard and struggle to find happiness in life. Our human and world drama is very colorful and full of challenges! Everyone wants to be happy – to have friends and family, and to be successful in work or school." He concludes with the encouragement, "Life will always be colorful with challenges so work hard and be happy while doing your best to reach your goals!"
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