There’s an old story about two monks that were on a pilgrimage. One day, on a warm and sunny day, the air was fresh and clean. They heard running water nearby and with each step the sounds came closer and closer.

They came to the top of the hill. From there they could see it. They went steadily down towards the deep, beautiful river. Suddenly, they noticed at the edge of the river, a young woman sat weeping because she was afraid to cross the river alone. She beggged the two monks to help her. The younger monk turned his back. For the members of their order it was forbidden to touch a woman. But the older monk picked up the woman and without a word carried her across the river. He put her down on the far side and continued his journey.

The younger monk came after him scolding him and berating him for breaking his vows. He went on his way for all day. A very long time. Finally, at the end of the day, the older monk turned to the younger one. “I let her go as soon as we crossed that river. Why are you still carrying her?”

I read this over a year ago. In fact I read it on May 2, 2017. I don’t recall where I read it however I found it tonight in one of my draft folders. There’s a reason I saved it in my draft folder. Undoubtedly, because I would find myself reading it again. I’m sharing this on my page tonight because as I read the story tonight it finally made sense.

Like the story I’ve been carrying quite a load. I haven’t been able to let go but I think I’m finally ready. It’s time to stop carrying the wreckage of my past and continue on this journey called life. I hope that by sharing it will encourage others to do the same.