zen gift

I've been into zen for quite a while now. Particularly, I enjoy reading zen stories and koans.

If you are interested in zen, you know that there is a thing about the zen texts that makes them not easy (to say the least) to comprehend. And it is not exactly 'thinking' that unlocks the meaning.

It is a kind of mystic experience when the famous 'satori' hits you, leaving you wondering 'how come I didn't realize this earlier - it is so obvious'. It seems like the story somehow enters the subconscious and do its magic and then something happens and the wisdom comes to one's awareness.

Who knows? I don't - just guessing. In fact it is an 'uneducated' guess, but never-mind - I'm using my beginner's mind which in zen terms is a good thing (Zen Mind, Beginner's Mind).

But back to the point - here is a zen story I like.

The Gift of Insults

There once lived a great warrior. Though quite old, he still was able to defeat any challenger. His reputation extended far and wide throughout the land and many students gathered to study under him.

One day an infamous young warrior arrived at the village. He was determined to be the first man to defeat the great master. Along with his strength, he had an uncanny ability to spot and exploit any weakness in an opponent. He would wait for his opponent to make the first move, thus revealing a weakness, and then would strike with merciless force and lightning speed. No one had ever lasted with him in a match beyond the first move.

Much against the advice of his concerned students, the old master gladly accepted the young warrior's challenge. As the two squared off for battle, the young warrior began to hurl insults at the old master. He threw dirt and spit in his face. For hours he verbally assaulted him with every curse and insult known to mankind. But the old warrior merely stood there motionless and calm. Finally, the young warrior exhausted himself. Knowing he was defeated, he left feeling shamed.

Somewhat disappointed that he did not fight the insolent youth, the students gathered around the old master and questioned him. "How could you endure such an indignity? How did you drive him away?"

"If someone comes to give you a gift and you do not receive it," the master replied, "to whom does the gift belong?"

So we can refuse being involved in something if it is not good for us. We can refuse being unhappy, anxious or negative. Is that so? I don't know. But it is worth to give it a try, isn't it? Let me know.