Two monks were walking from their monastery to another one nearby. One was an old wise monk, the other a novice.

As they walked in silence, they came across a river. Unseasonal rains had caused the river to run a bit high and on the bank of the river was a young lady wearing a kimono, not sure whether it was safe for her to cross. When she saw the two monks, she looked relieved and asked for their help.

The young monk was aghast. He exclaimed, “Don’t you see that I am a monk? I took a vow of chastity!”

“I require nothing from you that could impede your vow, but simply a little help to cross the river,” replied the young woman with a smile.

“I will not…I can…do nothing for you,” said the embarrassed young monk.

At this point the elderly monk said, “Climb on my back and I’ll help you cross.”

On reaching the other bank, the old monk put the lady down. She said “Thank you.” He said “Welcome.” And he started walking to the other monastery in silence.

But the young apprentice was agitated. He asked, “How could you do this? This is against our order. You are supposed to be my mentor. You are supposed to show me the way.” He went on and on till the gate of the next monastery.

On reaching the gate the old monk looked at the young monk and said: “You know, you are right. I did carry the lady, but I put her down on the bank of the river. It seems you are still carrying her.”

——————————-
MY NOTE:  Take out a little time and reflect.. are you still carrying something from the past, about somebody or something that you shouldn’t be? Can you now consciously let go of it and get ready to begin life on a fresh note?