A Zen story

Namaste

I share with you a story from the Zen tradition.

Heavy rain was falling as Tanzan and Ekido, two Buddhist monks, traveled together on a muddy path. On the way, they met a beautiful girl in a bright red silk kimono. Because of the flooded path, she was unable to cross to the other side of the road. "Come on, girl," Tanzan said at once. Effortlessly, he lifted the girl in his arms and carried her over the mud to the opposite side.

Ekido was silent. He did not speak again until that night when they arrived at the monastery. Then he no longer could restrain himself. "We monks don't go near females," he told Tanzan, "especially not young and lovely ones. It is dangerous. Why did you do that?"  Tanzan looked at his fellow-monk thoughtfully. "I left the girl there," he responded. "Why are you still carrying her?"

You may find it helpful to meditate on this story and how it is relevant to your own life, especially during this retreat. Please share with us any thoughts or insights you may have.

May the beautiful Light in your heart guide you always.