The True Self*

A man, feeling distraught and empty,

Went to his teacher for sage advice.

He wanted answers immediately--

Answers clear, direct, and precise.

 

"Please help me!" pleaded the man.

"I feel lost. I'm in a jam.

I want to know my true self.

Can you show me who I am?"

 

The master didn't say a word.

He just silently looked away.

Three times the man repeated

His question, feeling utter dismay.

 

The master kept up the silent treatment,

Pretending not to be alert,

While the man displayed impatience

And grew indignant, annoyed, and curt.

 

Turning to leave, he realized

The anger in the room was his.

The master smiled and shouted out,

"Your true self? THERE it is!"

 

-by Bob B (3-7-18)

*A popular tale (source unknown) retold here in verse