The Two Monks

Two monks were walking through a forest one day. They came upon a woman crying by a swiftly flowing stream. She was not able to cross because the footbridge was broken.

The older monk offered to carry her but the younger monk disapproved, since physical contact with women was forbidden. However, the older monk carried the woman on his back across the stream. She was very grateful especially since her children were waiting for something to eat back at her cottage. The two monks also went on their way but the anger of the younger monk increased as they went along. Finally he said to the older monk, "brother you have acted against your vows. God will surely punish you." The younger monk continued with this for some time. Finally the older monk said that he was not concerned.
"I set the woman down two hours ago, but you are still carrying her."


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There comes a time when we
have to put down unpleasant past events and live in the present.