How to end Stress

Let me share with you a timeless fable, dear reader, for stories hold the power to immortalize profound messages, passing them from one generation to the next.

In a distant land, nestled amidst rolling hills, there stood a serene monastery, where two humble monks, Yesmi and Nomi, resided. These learned souls were not only teachers but also compassionate souls who sought to bring peace and wisdom to the villagers nearby.

One balmy afternoon, after a day spent imparting knowledge to the villagers, Yesmi and Nomi decided to return to their monastery, following a dusty path that meandered alongside a crystal-clear river. As they approached the river's edge, the soothing sound of flowing water greeted their ears, but it was accompanied by a heart-rending sob.

Yesmi's keen intuition led him to investigate the source of the distressing sound. There, by the riverbank, sat a woman, her tear-streaked face reflecting the despair she felt in her heart. Sensing her distress, Yesmi approached her gently and inquired, "Dear lady, what troubles you so?"

With a voice laden with sorrow, the woman shared her plight. She needed to return to her beloved toddler, who resided in a village across the river. However, the recent rise in the river's water level had transformed her hopes into misery, for she could not traverse the river safely and feared leaving her little one alone throughout the night, yearning for her mother's comforting presence.

Moved by her pain, Yesmi's heart overflowed with empathy. Without hesitation, he volunteered to assist her, offering solace in the face of her predicament. With grace and strength, he lifted the woman into his arms and carried her across the river, ensuring her safe passage to the other side.

As Yesmi set the woman down gently on the opposite bank, a sense of relief washed over her tear-stained face. Gratitude shone in her eyes as she thanked the kind-hearted monk profusely. With a sincere smile, Yesmi reassured her that all would be well and that she need not worry about her child anymore.

The two monks resumed their journey, their simple robes swaying with each step. As they walked, the setting sun painted the horizon with hues of gold and orange, casting a warm glow on their path. Yet, amidst this tranquil beauty, Nomi's thoughts were turbulent.

In a tone filled with agitation, Nomi addressed Yesmi, expressing concern about his actions. He reminded him of the strict principles set forth by their esteemed masters, which dictated avoiding interactions with women to maintain a state of spiritual purity.

However, Yesmi responded to Nomi's concerns with serene wisdom. He acknowledged the truth in the teachings but gently pointed out that he had already released the woman from his embrace long ago, leaving her safely on the other side of the river. It was Nomi, in his restless mind, who continued to carry the burden of judgment and agitation.

The fable's essence lies in the stark contrast between Yesmi and Nomi, personifying two states of being. Yesmi represents the beautiful state, where actions arise from compassion and understanding, and where one remains fully present in the moment. In this state, there is no room for compulsive rumination over past deeds or anxious thoughts about the future.

Conversely, Nomi epitomizes the stressful state, where the mind becomes entangled in self-centric thinking, fueling agitation and disconnecting him from the world around him. Preoccupied with self-imposed ideas of duty and virtue, Nomi's actions become tainted with internal conflicts, leading to unhappiness and confusion.

The story's profound message transcends time and culture, revealing that each person's fundamental choice lies in which state they wish to inhabit - the beautiful or the stressful. And from this fundamental choice springs forth all other decisions and actions that shape our lives.

Let us all reflect on this timeless fable, dear reader, and learn from the lessons it imparts. In the hustle and bustle of life, may we strive to embrace the beautiful state, cultivating empathy, connection, and inner peace. By doing so, we may play our part in ending conflicts, fostering harmony, and spreading compassion in our world.

So, let us embark on the journey of self-awareness and meditation, dear reader. Close your eyes, breathe deeply, and be present in this moment. Observe your inner state - whether it leans towards stress or beauty. Embrace the gentle smile that comes from true understanding and interconnectedness. As you open your eyes, look into the eyes of those around you, and wish for them to reside in the beautiful state as well. If your hearts are open to it, share a warm hug, symbolizing the unity and peace we all seek.

May this fable resonate in our hearts, guiding us towards a more compassionate and harmonious existence.