The Other Side -Zen Story-

This brief story, ascribed to Zen Buddhism, has overtones of koan. It tells the unexpected event of a young man who needs to cross a mighty river to continue on his path. I think that the response of the monk who is on the other shore will not leave you indifferent.

Transcript

One day, A young Buddhist on his journey home came to the banks of a wide river. Staring hopelessly at the great obstacle in front of him, He pondered for hours on just how to cross such a wide barrier. Just as he was about to give up his pursuit to continue his journey, He saw a great teacher on the other side of the river. A young Buddhist yells over the teacher. Oh, Wise one, Can you tell me how to get to the other side of this river? The teacher ponders for a moment, Looks up and down the river and yells back. My son, You are on the other side.