A Young Monk's Heavy Load

On a warm spring morning, long ago in India, two Buddhist monks - one old and one young - were traveling to a village far from their monastery.

The winter had been a very powerful one in the tall mountains miles to the north. Much snow had fallen on the heights. Now the warm sun was melting the snow. The streams in the lowlands had become swollen and dangerous.

After walking for some time, the two monks came upon a swift moving stream. A young woman stood timidly on the bank, afraid to cross.

The young monk reminded himself that part of his monastic training was a vow to never touch a member of the opposite sex. He nodded to the young woman as he walked passed her, lifted his monk's robe slightly, and carefully negotiated his way through the rushing water.

When he stepped onto the further bank he looked back. He was amazed to see the elder monk lift the young woman in his arms and carry her safely across.

Once on the other bank, the elder monk placed the young lady on her feet. She bowed to the old monk respectfully and thanked him for his kindness.

The elder monk said no words, he simply smiled at the young lady. He then resumed his travels with the confused young monk walking a few steps behind.

As they walked, the young monk considered and reconsidered the actions of his elder companion back at the stream. With each step, and each passing mile, the young monk grew more and more angry.

Finally he could take it no longer.

He stopped and shouted at the elder monk, "You broke your scared vow! You swore never to touch a woman! How can you forgive yourself? You should not be allowed back into the monastery!"

Surprised, the elder monk stopped and turned.

He looked at his young companion with great compassion and deep concern.

"I set that young woman on her feet hours ago," he said. "Have you been carrying her all this time?"