The story of the Zen Master; Or, How things change

Once upon a time a Zen Master and his favorite student were climbing a huge mountain. Yes, it was a very hot day. The climb was getting pretty difficult. Pausing to take a breath, the young student asked the teacher, " Master, how does one reach enlightenment?"

The Zen Master paused and then ----------punched the student in the mouth......When the student awakened, he reached enlightenment.

I have thought a lot about that story over the years. I remarked to a friend recently that as a human being we have the burden and responsibility to look forward to the future. Is it not prudent to plan accordingly?

"Well that's a nice theory," he replied, "but that's not how things really work. Right before HUGE change, people get REAL tired. They can't bear to think of the change to come. Whether this is at GM or anywhere. Then-----and ONLY THEN---when the crisis erupts---like Pearl Harbor---is there energy to address the challenge. All I am saying, Wolfman (he always did call me wolfman) your theory is BOGUS. Folks do not want to see. The reality is right before them, but it is too painful to see.

I guess it is the same thing with "Nirvana" or whatever------ the Zen thing. It is really not out there somewhere. It is really right in front of our noses----It's just that it takes a punch in the mouth to see it.