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1. Identifying with the Master
Here's a story for those of you craving a clear understanding
of yourself and what you truly want to accomplish in life.
* * *
Many years ago... (This is always the way such stories begin.)
A new and highly enthused student starting studying with a Master.
There were classes six days a week, early morning and evening,
and the new student came to each and every class. He commented
at least once that he wished classes were held seven days a
week, so he could learn even more.
The Master often talked about the importance of students modeling
ALL of his behaviors, rather than trying to figure out intellectually
how he moved when performing his art.
"Pay attention to my posture when I'm sitting or standing,
my tone of voice, my breathing, the quality of my eyes, the
way I smile, and when I don't. All of this and much much more
goes into making up who I am and how I perform my art."
Everyone always dutifully nodded their head "Yes"
when the Master spoke such words, but few students attempted
to follow his advice. Why this is, I'm still not sure. I'm guessing
the average person fails to understand how the Master and his
art are one. That the Master does not start and stop his performance.
Twice a year the Master hosted a dinner party at a local restaurant.
All of his students were invited and told they could bring their
family members and friends as long as they reserved in advance.
The new and enthusiastic student said he was going to invite
many people because he wanted them to know how great the Master
was, and how fantastic it was to study his art. The Master nodded
and said that would be fine.
I found it interesting at the time that the student didn't
stop to consider how much it would cost the Master to host so
many people. After all, with dinner and drinks, the bill would
surely not be cheap. The student's "enthusiasm" led
me to wonder if he was perhaps not more interested in showing
off his newly acquired persona, than he was in introducing people
to his teacher.
On the evening of the party, the Master arrived early so he
could greet his guests. All were graciously received with a
bow and soon the festivities began. As was usual, after finding
out a bit about his guests, the Master launched into some stories.
Storytelling being an art he was well known for.
The moment there was a lull in the conversation the new student
spoke.
"Please Master, tell us what has led you to perform with
such magnificence."
The Master farted loudly, muttered "Excuse me" and
then launched into a short irreverent reply. The new student
and his friends looked shocked.
Someone else asked a question about a particular technique,
and the Master let out a healthy belch before answering.
It didn't take but ten minutes of such activity for the new
student and all but one of his entourage to leave in a huff.
Once the room quieted back down the Master turned to the one
lone new visitor, smiled warmly, and asked why he had chosen
to stay.
The gentleman smiled back, farted loudly, and without muttering
an excuse told the Master he was enthralled to be in the company
of such a fine teacher.
"Ah," the Master said, "So wonderful to meet
someone who has a sincere interest in learning! Please don't
hesitate to visit my dojo some day, and if you're ever having
a party, I'll be happy to attend."
Til this day, I wonder what happened to the student who had
brought his many friends. He never attended another class.
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