Yongjia Xuanjue (665 – 713 CE) was a Zen buddhist monk, born in the city now known as Wenzhou. He began studying at an early age, and it is said that he attained enlightenment through reading the Vimalakirti Sutra. He became a prominent teacher, and reportedly passed away while meditating. This verse is from his Song of Enlightenment, a highly revered work that is frequently memorised by students of the Zen path.

No bad fortune, no good fortune, no loss, no gain;
Never seek such things in eternal serenity.
For years the dusty mirror has gone uncleaned,
Now let us polish it completely, once and for all.

Translation Robert Aitken