Peace of Mind

While traveling with a group of his loyal disciples, Buddha came across a peaceful lake. His journey had made him thirsty, so he turned to one of his followers and said, "I need water." Please go to the lake and get some."

The chosen disciple quickly approached the lake, but just as he arrived, a bullock cart began to traverse the water, making it murky and turbid.

When the disciple saw the state of the water, he hesitated, thinking, "How can I offer this muddy water to Buddha for him to drink?" With this in mind, he returned to Buddha and respectfully stated, "The water in the lake has become muddy." I believe it is inappropriate for your consumption."

After about a half-hour, Buddha asked the same disciple to retrieve water from the lake once more. The disciple dutifully retraced his steps and discovered that the water was still in the same state as before. He informed Buddha of his findings.

Buddha later made the same request to the disciple a third time. When the disciple arrived at the lake this time, he was pleasantly surprised to see that the mud had settled, leaving the water clear and pristine. He quickly filled a pot with the now crystal-clear water and returned it to Buddha.

After closely inspecting the water, Buddha turned his gaze to the disciple and imparted his wisdom, saying, "Observe what you have learned from this lake." You let it be, and eventually, the mud settled on its own, leaving you with clear water. This lake represents your mind. Allow it to be when it is disturbed. Give it some time, and it will eventually settle. You don't have to use any force to calm it down. This procedure is simple."

Finding 'Peace of Mind' is not a difficult task; it unfolds naturally with time and patience, much like the lake's waters.

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