Ask Me - Value of Patience
Value of Patience A zen story to explain this idea A zen story underscoring the value of patience A young, earnest Zen student approached a Zen Master and asked, "If I work very hard and diligent, how long will it take for me to find Zen." 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 ?" The Master replied: "Well, twenty years." "But, if I really, really work at it. How long then ?" asked the student. "Thirty years," replied the Master. "But, I do not understand," said the disappointed student. "Each time that I say I will work harder, you say it will take me longer. Why do you say that ?" The Master replied: " When you have one eye on the goal, you only have one eye on the path. That is why. This story gives an important message. If one is in hurry, it is difficult to reach ...