The Parable of the Eternal Teacher and the Unfinished Path
Once, in a small village at the edge of a vast forest, there lived a great Teacher. His wisdom was known far and wide, though many could not fully grasp the depth of His teachings. He had come to the village long ago, with the purpose of building a great Wau that would illuminate all who understood the teachings. The Teacher spent many years laying the foundations of this Way, teaching the villagers about not only the teachings but about the Guru principle itself.
As time passed, the Teacher grew older. One day, one of a closest students, filled with concern asked, “Master, You have spoken of the difficult times we live in. The Path is still unfinished, and I fear for the day when You are no longer with us. What will happen to the Way? Will we still be able to find the Light you show us without You here?”
The Teacher smiled and replied, “Much has already been accomplished. The foundations of the Way are sufficient. If I were to leave this world today, I have already given enough instructions to ensure that the Way can continue. My teachings, my instructions have all been given for you to employ. BUT there is a paradox in this.”
The student looked puzzled. “A paradox, Master?”
“Yes,” the Teacher said. “While the Path is built and the way forward is clear, if I am able to remain longer, if I have more time, I can clear away many obstacles that remain. Surely, that would be better, don’t you agree?”
“Of course, Master,” the student nodded. “It would be better for us all.”
“But here is the paradox,” the Teacher continued. “Whether I stay or leave, the Way is always alread by case. My work does not end when I leave this world. The Way I’ve established will remain, and those who follow it with devotion and energy will still be able to find Me. If I am here longer, I can make continue my work. But if I am not, the Way is already set. It’s up to you and all who come after to Realize and Find Me.”
The student bowed his head in understanding. “So, it is our responsibility to walk the Path, whether You are here or not.”
“Exactly,” the Teacher said, with a knowing smile. “The work I have done will continue beyond my time in this world. My presence, my guidance, will not disappear simply because I am no longer seen. Just as the wind moves the trees though you cannot see it, so too will my influence remain. It is up to you, and all those who follow, to choose whether to accept that guidance. That is the paradox. I am here, and I am not here. My work is done, and yet it is not done.”
The student looked up at the Teacher with newfound clarity. “I see now, Master. The Path will continue because of Your work, but it is up to us to full establish your Presence here.”
The Teacher nodded. “Yes, The choice is always yours. I have revealed this Way but you must continue to do your sadhana.”
And so, the student left, carrying the Teacher’s words deep within his heart. He knew that the Teacher’s presence would always be with him, even if the Teacher were no longer by his side. The Way has been established in its rudimentary form but it was the devotees responsibility to allow his influence to “Brighten” the Way fully.