Soup for the Samurai
A Zen master, who was also known for his exceptional cooking skills, decided to teach a proud and impatient samurai a valuable lesson before he became too dangerous. He invited the warrior over for dinner. The samurai was thrilled. He had heard about the master’s incredible dishes and could hardly wait. Right on time, he arrived at the Zen master’s home. “Make yourself comfortable,” the Zen master said, “I’ll begin the preparations.”
Time passed. A lot of time. The samurai waited, growing hungrier by the minute. Eventually, he called out:
“Zen master have you forgotten me? ” The master stepped out of the kitchen. “My apologies,” he said calmly, “The meal is taking a little longer than expected.”
He disappeared back into the kitchen. More time passed. The samurai’s hunger became unbearable.
“Zen master,” he called again, this time more softly, “When will dinner be served?” Once again, the master emerged:
“So sorry, there has been a small delay. It won’t be much longer.” Time dragged on. The samurai was at his limit. Just as he was about to stand up in frustration, the master returned with a tray. “First course: soy soup,” he announced cheerfully, placing a steaming bowl in front of the samurai.
“You must let it cool for exactly five minutes,” he said, “for the best taste.” The samurai, starving, could barely wait. The aroma was irresistible.
Finally, the monk said gently, “Enjoy your meal.” The samurai drank the soup and was astonished. “Oh Zen master,” he exclaimed, “This is the best soup I’ve ever tasted! Your cooking is magical!” “It’s nothing,” said the Zen master modestly. “It’s just instant noodle soup from a packet.” The samurai looked shocked. “Impossible! It tasted divine! You must have used some secret ingredient.”The Zen master paused. “Well… there is one special ingredient,” he said quietly. “I knew it!” said the samurai. “What is it? ”The Zen master leaned in and whispered: “The secret ingredient… is time.”
Food for thought
"Time is the secret ingredient to mastery." We live in a world of rush and urgency. But just like a simple soup needs time to release its full flavor, so too do our skills, our relationships, and even ourselves need time to grow.In martial arts, we often want instant results powerful techniques, perfect control. But true strength comes not from rushing, but from patience. Each movement, each lesson, needs time to mature. Let your practice simmer.
Let your character ripen. And you’ll taste the richness of your own progress.
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