I am sometimes asked why share Zen stories as part of my workshops and group sessions. In a nutshell, Zen stories may confuse or leave one hanging, yet they do not impart information or knowledge. They are designed to to get rid of something, to get rid of a false problem with which you are wrestling so that the problem will disappear as the result of understanding the story. In this way, they invite joining the dots like stars into constellations and evoke eureka moments.
There was a Master walking, engaged in forest meditation with a group of his disciples. Suddenly, he picked up a tree branch and said to one of the monks, "what is it?" As the monk hesitated , did not answer immediately, the Master hit him with it. Then, the Master turned to another monk and asked, "what is it?" That monk said, "Give it to me so I can see." The Master tossed it and the monk hit the Master. The Master said, "Well, you got out of that dilemma."
When we look for the mind that seems to be giving us so much trouble and realize it cannot be found, this is a pointer to the solution to our perceived problem. A dilemma is like a physical stick that many people hold within themselves, dwell on, discuss or allow to fester. Focusing on dilemmas harms ourselves. Letting go, going with the flow, acting spontaneously, implies less thinking, and more savouring this moment as it is. A dilemma is a state of mind. Albert Einstein echoes we cannot solve a problem with the same level of consciousness that creates it. We can always tune in, and allow the rhythm of the breath to guide us. The power resides within.