Presence In The Present

By Staff

Zen Story
A severe earthquake had a Zen temple shaking with some of its parts falling in parts. The terrified monks were sheltered in the kitchen by the teacher.

When the earthquake stopped, the monk said to his disciples, "Now you have seen how a Zen man reacts during a crisis. I led you all to the kitchen which was the strongest part of the building and sheltered you there. It was a good decision as we all escaped the injuries"

The teacher further spoke : "I however did feel a bit jittery which you would have discerned from the fact that I drank a large glass of water, which I normally do not do in ordinary circumstances".

One of the monks smiled at the teachers words but kept quiet.

The teacher hence asked him, "What are you laughing at?"

The monk replied : "That was not water that you drank. It was a large glass of Soy sauce!"