8/2/2021
“A senior monk and a junior monk were traveling together. At one point, they came to a river with a strong current. As the monks were preparing to cross the river, they saw a very young and beautiful woman also attempting to cross. The young woman asked if they could help her cross to the other side.
The two monks glanced at one another because they had taken vows not to touch a woman.
Then, without a word, the older monk picked up the woman, carried her across the river, placed her gently on the other side, and carried on his journey.
The younger monk couldn’t believe what had just happened. After rejoining his companion, he was speechless, and an hour passed without a word between them.
Two more hours passed, then three, finally the younger monk could contain himself no longer, and blurted out “As monks, we are not permitted a woman, how could you then carry that woman on your shoulders?”
The older monk looked at him and replied, “Brother, I set her down on the other side of the river, why are you still carrying her?”
I first came across this story in the book “Zen Golf” written by Dr. Joseph Parent. The theme was once again brought into light when Lyn Marriott and Pia Nilson were here at the club 3 years ago.
Golf is about being present. Being here, now. Paying attention to what you are about to do. Understanding the intricacies of
your swing and how you hit your greatest golf shots. Connecting to your target and visualizing the ball flight you are about to see.
If you are living in the past, then being present is a challenge. So here is my suggestion. Every shot needs a
beginning and an
end. When you pull out the club you are to use on your next shot, that’s the beginning. When you put the club back in your bag, that’s the end. Let go of the previous shot and use sensory awareness to stay in the present to avoid living in the past or predicting future outcomes.
If you need better tools to stay in the present, come and find me for a chat to discuss methods for staying present. I’m here nearly every day 😊
Thank you for reading,
Ryan Rinneard
Director of Instruction
PGA of Canada, Class A