Thoughtful Thursdays: The Story of the Monks

Posted by co-inside on Thursday, June 21, 2012 ·

By Candice Aiken.

I have heard this powerful buddhist story many times (mostly from Curtis when I apparently need a really good kick up the butt/reminder of ‘letting go’ – bless that husband of mine for being so on the ball!). Every time I hear this, whether it’s from Curtis or another source, it comes with a whole new meaning and leaves me with a sense of freedom as I am reminded of the power of flexibility, understanding and more importantly… forgiveness.

This is the story of the monks…

Two travelling monks reached a river where they met a young woman. Wary of the current, she asked if they could carry her across. One of the younger monks hesitated, but the other (older) monk quickly picked her up onto his shoulders, transported her across the water, and put her down on the other bank. She thanked him and departed.

As the monks continued on their way, the young monk was brooding and preoccupied. Unable to hold his silence, he spoke out.

“Brother, our spiritual training teaches us to avoid any contact with women, but you picked that one up on your shoulders and carried her!!”

“Brother,” the older monk replied, “I set her down on the other side, while you are still carrying her.” [source]

♥

How would you react in a situation such as this? Like the older monk… able to see beyond your beliefs in order to help someone in need regardless of what others may think or say? Or are you more like the younger monk… inflexible and possibly a little judgemental? Holding onto grudges and unable to forgive and move on?

Is there anywhere in your life you can become more flexible and ‘let go’ of beliefs that no longer serve you? Is there someone you can forgive that you have been punishing for far too long (especially if that person is YOU!)?