Self-Control

One day there was an earthquake that shook the entire Zen temple. Parts of it even collapsed. Many of the monks were terrified. When the earthquake stopped the teacher said, "Now you have had the opportunity to see how a Zen man behaves in a crisis situation. You may have noticed that I did not panic. I was quite aware of what was happening and what to do. I led you all to the kitchen, the strongest part of the temple. It was a good decision, because you see we have all survived without any injuries. However, despite my self-control and composure, I did feel a little bit tense - which you may have deduced from the fact that I drank a large glass of water, something I never do under ordinary circumstances."One of the monks smiled, but didn't say anything."What are you laughing at?" asked the teacher."That wasn't water," the monk replied, "it was a large glass of soy sauce."
People's Reactions To The Story - Reflections
* "I see this sort of behavior often in men. They feel they have to put on a front to appear to be something that they are not."
* "Sometimes the calmest looking person in an emergency situation is really the most nervous."
* "This reminds me of people who think they are so great and are always bragging about it. Admitting that they are wrong is the hardest thing in their lives, when it should be something that's very natural."
* "Sometimes, when you're in a very stressful situation, you aren't aware of your actions until someone else points it out."
* "To conquer one's mind is the greatest challenge. To have a mind that is truly calm, composed and equinimous requires continuous and ardent training and development of the mind."