The Art of Possibility 11 of 15: The Monk’s Story
February 4, 2010 by dr. lam
An Abbott in a far away forest was opining the decimation of his monastic order down to his own being the last branch. He visited a Rabbi in a nearby hermitage for advice. After a nice luncheon, the Abbott turned to the Rabbi and asked, “Do you have any advice for me on how to save my order that is slowly dying since obviously the spirit of the people is absent?” The Rabbi turned to him and said, “I am experiencing the same problems as you are. No, I have no advice for you. However, I have to tell you that one of you is the Messiah.” The Abbott puzzled returned to his monastery to share this news.
Everyone began to wonder in hushed tones who it could be. Of course, it must be the Abbott since he has been our leader for so many years. It couldn’t be Brother Thomas because he is so passive. But somehow Thomas always shows up at the right time for those in need. Hmmmm. How about Father Peter? He is so crotchety but he is so wise. What if it is I? Could I be the Messiah? Surely not, but maybe yes.
After a while, the monks began to treat each other with great respect and adoration in fear that they would mistreat the Messiah among them. Then they started to treat themselves with the same respect in case he himself were the Messiah. Occasionally, people from the town would stop by the forest to picnic. As tales were told of the friendly monks, more and more people began to picnic and spend time in the forest near the monastery. Some men actually joined the order to be part of what was going on. Then more and more people joined the order and greater throngs spent their free time in the forest.
How often do we treat ourselves and others with disrespect? What would happen if we only saw the best in others and the best in ourselves? How would that change the world?
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I like the message in this story. Thanks, Dr. Lam! I especially like the part about treating not only others with respect which is wonderful, but also ourselves. That is important too. Great blog!
thanks heather!