[Video by Liu Chuan/chinadaily.com.cn]

"It reminds us to cherish the present and make our lives meaningful, valuable, purposeful and goal-oriented," said Zhu Peiliang, chairman of the Xuzhou Calligraphers Association, while commenting on Lan Ting Xu or Preface to the Orchid Pavilion, at the opening ceremony of the 22nd Calligrapher Sage Culture Festival of Linyi on Sept 22.

Created by Wang Xizhi (303-361), widely known as the "Sage of Calligraphy", Lan Ting Xu is widely regarded as the finest example of Chinese running script, known for its flowing lines and expressive brushwork.

But Zhu believes its significance goes beyond its artistic beauty.

In the Preface, Wang reflects on the fleeting nature of life, writing, "Whether life is long or short, all ultimately come to an end."

Linyi, the hometown of Wang, is hosting its 22nd Calligrapher Sage Culture Festival, with a series of cultural activities to celebrate the traditional Chinese calligraphy culture. The event will run through Oct 21.