Clarity of Stillness One day, Buddha was traveling with his followers when they came upon a serene lake. Feeling thirsty, he asked one of his disciples to fetch him some water from the lake.
The disciple approached the water, only to find it disturbed. Nearby, some villagers were washing clothes, and a cart had just crossed, churning up mud and debris. He thought to himself, “This water is not clean enough for my master,” and returned to Buddha empty-handed.
Buddha noticed the disciple’s concern and suggested they rest beneath a tree for a while. After some time, he asked the disciple to try again.
The disciple went back to the lake and was pleasantly surprised to see the water was now clear and calm. The mud had settled at the bottom, and the surface was pristine. He filled his pot and brought the water back to Buddha.
Buddha smiled and said, “You see, sometimes all it takes is patience. By allowing the water to be, the mud settled naturally, revealing clarity beneath. It required no effort at all.”
Buddha continued, “Your mind is like this lake. When troubled, it’s best to simply let it be. With time, your thoughts will settle, and you will find clarity. Only then can you make wise decisions.”
Moral:
Just as muddy water can clear with time, so too can a restless mind find peace. Allow yourself the space to pause and breathe; in stillness, clarity emerges. Trust that the answers you seek will come when you give yourself the chance to settle.
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