Me: I’ve got this underlying tension.
Inner Zen Master: Why?
Me: I suppose I worry too much about lots of things.
IZM: Haven’t we been over this before? Didn’t I find you all those self-help books to read?
Me: Yes, yes, but it’s still there! Not always, but often!
IZM: Well, why don’t you let go of it and have some fun?
Me: What?
IZM: Yes, just, you know, let go.
Me: Of the underlying tension?
IZM: Yes!
Me: Easy for a Zen Master to say!
IZM: Well, what causes it?
Me: Hmmm, worrying about everything I suppose.
IZM: Like what?
Me: Health, what to eat, what to do, where to go. Whether to give up the odd glass of wine or not. Mainly those things.
IZM: What did you do today?
Me: Had a healthy breakfast, went for a long walk, sat down to do some work.
IZM: Worrying?
Me: Not really, pretty much the perfect day actually.
IZM: Seems like you are doing fine then.
Me: Yes, I suppose you are right!
IZM: So?
Me: OK, thanks. But…
IZM: Look. How much worry are you capable of?
Me: Pfffff, oceanic quantities on a bad day.
IZM: How much inner peace are you capable of? True answer.
Me: Well, based on the times I’ve really got in touch with it… I’d say boundless amounts.
IZM: Which do you need more of in your life?
Me: The boundless inner peace.
IZM: Well, choose that every time worrying comes up.
Me: Ah. Wow. That makes sense.
IZM: So go and do it! And have a bit of fun while you’re at it!
Notes from Ben 