I can’t remember where I read this story or the name of the Buddhist monk, but it took place hundreds of years ago.
Apparently, this monk lived on top of a mountain and had many disciples. They would come and sit at his feet every day and receive his instruction.
He taught them things such as everything is an illusion, and suffering rises from investing in these illusions and believing them to be real.
And then one day, his young son died.
The monk went into deep mourning and hid in his cave for a long time while he grieved the loss of his dear son.
His disciples became very distressed.
After many months, he eventually emerged from his cave.
His disciples were a little upset, and inquired of him, “Master! You taught us your whole life that this is all an illusion and suffering arises from it. Why did you grieve so, if death is just an illusion?”
The master responded, “This illusion was a fairly convincing one!”
Do you relate to this story? Because I sure do.
No matter how much time and effort we spend on becoming better humans… wiser, more intelligent, more gracious and patient and loving and kind… sometimes something comes along that derails us from the illusion that we are immune from loss, suffering, conflict, pain, and death.
Sometimes life reminds us that we’re human.
And that’s okay.
