Drowning In The Sea Of Life
There was a teacher who created an instruction manual called the Holy Book. One day he called all his disciples to tell them that before they do anything, they must consult with the Holy Book. So they did. Anything to do with a life matter, was written in this holy book. One day he and his disciples travelled on a boat. There was a storm and strong winds, whereby the teacher accidentally fell down into the sea. Not knowing how to swim, he called for help. The disciples said to the teacher, wait master we need to consult with the Holy Book. While the disciples were looking for instructions on how to help someone who’s drowning, the master disappeared into the sea and drowned.
When I shared this story in my classes, I asked what is the moral of the story? The attendees all came up with different answers. So, what’s your answer?
Sometimes we forget to use our common sense to relate to one another. How would you help someone if you were to attach yourself to a Holy Book? And if in your holy book there was nothing written on how to help someone that is drowning, in the ocean of life, would you just let them drown or would you use common sense?
I discovered this when I had a conversation with my partner, Beck. I have the tendency to be straightforward and tell her if she is at fault. I project my ideas from the Holy Book, that I carry within, onto her and she must follow or else. In this way of thinking, I unconsciously create suffering and pain in our relationship. In the midst of this, I stopped myself and asked questions instead. This way she is free to discover her own path in life. In your life, maybe your way is working for you but maybe not for other people. Just like the teacher in this story who thought his way was the truth, when really that way of approaching life ends up costing his life.
Have you ever asked yourself the question of; Am I making myself right and the other wrong in a conversation? Is my way of thinking serving me? Am I rigid in the way I approach life? By asking these questions, you evoke your mind to think and see things from a higher perspective. Rather than follow instructions written in the Holy Book and forget to use common sense.
My friend, let go of the instruction and use your common sense when you find someone who may be drowning in the sea of life.