The Verdant Mist Scholar Society presented “Be A Scholar For A Day” on 3/6/11 to promote the understanding and appreciation for the philosophies of Ancient Chinese scholasticism.
The Verdant Mist Scholar Society was first established in March 2010 by Jim Folsom at the Huntington Library's “Liu Fang Yuan” (Garden of Flowering Fragrance), also known as the Chinese Garden. Co-Chairs Rosa Zee and Vivian Chan stated the mission is to gather people of diverse backgrounds together to further the understanding and appreciation for the philosophies of Ancient Chinese scholasticism.
While the daily rituals of the Song Dynasty’s Scholars (960-1280 A.D.) may be just known for their renown, the practice of “hanging pictures, brewing tea, burning incense, and arranging flowers” extends beyond just the mere activity, but how these customs influence our lives on an emotional, spiritual and intellectual level is a realm that warrants further exploration.
We believe that through the careful study and practice of the philosophies observed by the Song Dynasty Scholars, we can achieve not only a better understanding of the culture that made ancient China such a prosperous nation, but also a means by which we can incorporate these into our own lives. It is our conviction that by bridging the traditions of the past and the fast-paced busy world that identifies today, we can take one step closer to the life-balance so many seek and so few achieve.
Furthermore, for thousands of years all the Chinese literati tried to improve each of the individual four arts such as the abilities of playing music and chess and abilities to master beautiful calligraphy and to create magnificent paintings and poems. Again, nowadays, we replace these important spiritual enhancements with many fashionable events. Maybe just maybe, the Verdant Mist can bring the true meanings of our life back to the modern world.
We wanted to be a fun educational project for the fourth, fifth and sixth grader aged group (age 9 – 11). We re-created the Scholar Library/studio at the Chinese Garden's Lotus Pavilion. We designed and created activities based on the four discipline areas of the scholar and demonstrated how the Chinese literati efforts could improve each individual's character through the four arts such as the abilities to play music and chess, master beautiful calligraphy and create magnificent paintings and poems.
We have over 50 participants including children and parents.
In a warm spring afternoon, young scholars and their families strolled the Chinese Garden to experience the daily rituals of a Song Dynasty scholar--burning incense, hanging scrolls, brewing tea, writing calligraphy, and arranging flowers. It was a fun and educational day WITHOUT video games, computer or TV. The best part is they all had fun!
Another fun summer activity is scheduled on August 6, 2011 "Qi Xi" - Fairytale Under the Stars. Be sure to look out for more info from La JaJa Kids and Verdant Mist Society
