Take Your Eye Off the Prize

I was reading a blog entry over at Yoga for Cynics and they referred to this great little Zen parable that I thought I would share.

A Zen student approached his teacher, and asked the Zen Master:
"If I work very hard and diligent how long will it take for me to find enlightenment."
The Master thought about this, then replied, "Ten years."
The student then said, "But what if I work very, very hard and really apply myself to learn fast -- How long then ?"
Replied the Master, "Well, twenty years."
"But, if I really, really work at it. How long then ?" asked the student.
"Thirty years," replied the Master.
"Every time that I say I will work harder, you say it will take me longer! "said the disappointed student. Why do you say that ?"
The Master Replied:" When you have one eye on the goal, you only have one eye on the path."

I am reminded that it is natural and healthy to have goals, to want to achieve something in your life but sometimes we get so wrapped up in the conclusion that we forget to enjoy all of the moments leading up to it. We convince ourselves that we won't be happy unless there is a quick successful outcome. We give the goal too much power in our lives. I know it's hard to believe but there is such a thing as trying too hard.

Whether your goal is to finish school, plan a wedding or raise a child take some time out to enjoy your journey. Once a moment is gone it can't be repeated, so savor each of them!

Comments

[Lauren]

Thank you for posting this. This is such a good reminder. For about a year there I got so caught up in my weight loss goal, working out nonstop and agonizing over what the scale said, I rarely did anything for fun or something active just for the enjoyment of being active. Trying to strike a balance is never easy but is always well worth it.

[Gina]

Lauren,

You're welcome and very well said. Reaching your goal is amazing and something to be so proud of but you also want to find joy in the process. Having the self awareness to realize that is half the battle and it sounds like you are well on your way. Take care!