Self-reflection is the school of wisdom – Baltasar Gracian
There was a monk who carried a mirror whereever he went. A priest noticed this one day and thought to himself, “This monk must be so preoccupied with the way he looks that he has to carry that mirror all the time. He should not worry about the way he looks on the outside, it’s what’s on the inside that counts.”
So the priest went up to the monk and asked “Why do you always carry that mirror?” thinking for sure this would prove his guilt.
The monk pulled the mirror from his bag and pointed it at the priest. He said, “I use it in times of trouble. I look into it and it shows me the source of my problems as well as the solution to my problems.
http://weblog.raganwald.com/2007/10/three-stories-about-tao.html
If I feel stressed or overwhelmed, it can be easier to look outside myself for the solution or for the blame. Looking within and taking time to reflect on my situation, I discover the wisdom I need, to find a solution and to take responsibility to change the outcome.
Love it Karen. This story makes the point very well! ❤
Diana xo
Thanks Diana, a simple story but a great reminder! 🙂
Great story. Both looking inside for the answers or for me, being quiet in nature and that becomes my mirror. Thanks Karen!
Mary
I agree, stillness in nature is my solution too Mary. I might just carry a mirror too, for a reminder! 🙂
I am fortunate to have a pond. ❤
Well I am jealous! It’s the perfect mirror Mary.
Such wise words – thank you, Karen! ❤
Always good to be reminded of this simple but effective wisdom, thankyou Eliza.
Great post, wise words of wisdom and really inspiring
Thankyou Kelly, nice to have you here.
Thank you, It’s nice to be part of this healing community.
So true: look into it and it shows me the source of my problems as well as the solution to my problems
It does DK, a double bonus! 🙂
Lovely reminder of self responsibility, and perhaps when I glance in a mirror I am going to see differently. I am grateful for your words.
Yes I will too and remember. Thankyou.
. . . and now I don’t feel quite so bad for doing the same! XD
Wonderful Hariod.
It is much wiser when viewing this mirror to seek answers than to seek blame. Truth, whether supportive or opposing current belief, offers wisdom and direction for growth and development. Following this path of honesty delivers peace, harmony and great joy. To think, all this can be seen if a mirror that reflects our potential future.
Wonderful message.
It is a great reminder to us all. Thankyou Jonathan.
Sorry about the misspelling. I meant to write, “To think, all this can be seen in a mirror that reflects our potential future.”
I didn’t notice at all. You write great comments Jonathan and I appreciate that.
Reblogged this on dreamweaver333.
Thankyou 🙂