A story of two Zen Monks

Tanzan and Ekido, were walking along a country road that had become very muddy after heavy rains. As the approached a village, they met a young woman who was trying to cross the road, but the mud was so deep that it would have ruined the silk kimono she was wearing. Tanzan at once picked her up and carried her to the other side.

The monks walked on in silence. Five hours passed, as they were approaching the temple, Ekido couldn’t restrain himself any longer. “Why did you carry that girl across the road” he asked. “We monks are not supposed to do things like that.” Tanzan replied “I put the girls down hours ago.” Are you still carrying her?

Consider how many things a person like Ekido is carrying around. The burden of the past and the worry of the future; at times one of the biggest things that stops a person from achieving a dream is something they need to let go. Often with goals and dreams we really want to make them happen. Unfortunately, often we hold on to a negative story or experience which drains our energy and hinders or stops progress.

The next time you set a goal consider the one of following questions:

What do I need to let go of to take my life, body, finances to another level?

Or

What are the past or future thoughts (worry), feelings or story around this goal that I might be carrying around?

The following article was inspired by the book A New Earth by Eckhart Tolle.

To your success!

Kameka

My Comfort Zone Poem

My Comfort Zone

I used to have a comfort zone where I knew I wouldn't fail. The same four walls and busywork were really more like jail. I longed so much to do the things I'd never done before, But stayed inside my comfort zone and paced the same old floor.

I said it didn't matter that I wasn't doing much. I said I didn't care for things like commission checks and such. I claimed to be so busy with the things inside the zone, But deep inside I longed for something special of my own.

I couldn't let my life go by just watching others win. I held my breath; I stepped outside and let the change begin. I took a step and with new strength I'd never felt before, I kissed my comfort zone goodbye and closed and locked the door.

If you're in a comfort zone, afraid to venture out, Remember that all winners were at one time filled with doubt. A step or two and words of praise can make your dreams come true. Reach for your future with a smile; success is there for you!

By Author Unknown