Let Go: The Wisdom of the Two Monks and the River

In the hustle of modern life, it is easy to get caught up in past events, replaying conversations, and holding onto frustrations that no longer serve us. Yet, there is a simple, timeless Zen story that offers a powerful lesson in letting go. The story of the two monks and the river.

Two monks were traveling together. A wise, older monk and a younger, less experienced one. As they journeyed, they came across a river where a finely dressed woman stood, clearly distressed about crossing.

Without hesitation, the older monk approached her, picked her up, and carried her across the river. He set her down gently on the other side, and the monks continued their journey.

Hours passed in silence until the younger monk, visibly upset, finally spoke up.

"How could you do that? We are monks, and we have taken vows not to touch women. What you did was against our practice!"

The older monk smiled gently and replied, "I set her down hours ago. Why are you still carrying her?"

This story is not just about monks. It is about all of us. How often do we hold onto grudges, guilt, or stress long after the moment has passed?

The older monk acted compassionately in the present moment and then let go. The younger monk, on the other hand, carried the emotional burden of judgment and disapproval, weighing himself down unnecessarily.

The truth is, we all do this. We replay mistakes, stew over things we cannot change, and cling to frustrations that drain our energy. But life is about movement, about flowing forward like the river.

This story is one I often share when leading meditation classes or speaking to groups about the practice of letting go. It is simple yet profoundly impactful. As participants hear the tale, many find themselves reflecting on what they, too, are still carrying.

Whether guiding a meditation or facilitating a discussion, this story sets the perfect tone for deeper introspection. It is a reminder that letting go is a practice, not a one-time decision, and that we all have the power to release what no longer serves us.

I often invite participants to meditate on the question, "What am I carrying right now that I can set down?" This opens a space of awareness and healing. For many, the act of letting go starts with simply identifying what is holding them back.

Letting go does not mean ignoring challenges or pretending emotions do not exist. It is about acknowledging them, learning what you can, and then releasing them so they do not weigh you down. Here are a few simple ways to practice letting go.

Pause and reflect. When something upsets you, take a moment to breathe and ask yourself, "Is holding onto this helping me or hurting me?"

Write it out. Journaling can be a powerful way to process emotions and set them down on paper.

Practice mindfulness. Use meditation or mindfulness techniques to focus on the present moment and reduce the mental chatter that keeps you stuck in the past.

Move your body. Physical movement, like yoga, qi gong, or even a brisk walk, can help you release pent-up emotions and energy.

Practice compassion. Not just for others but for yourself. Recognize that it is human to get stuck sometimes, and it is okay to forgive yourself and move on.

The story of the two monks reminds us that freedom is not about escaping responsibilities or challenges. It is about how we carry them. When we learn to let go of what no longer serves us, we lighten our load and open ourselves to the beauty of the present moment.

So, ask yourself. What am I still carrying that I can set down today?

As I often say in my classes, letting go is like unclenching your hand after gripping something tightly for too long. The relief is immediate, and the freedom is worth it.

Let this story be a reminder, not just during meditation, but in your everyday life. Let go, and flow like the river.

If you have used this story or practice in your own life or classes, I would love to hear about your experiences. Share your thoughts in the comments below.

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