The Foundation Online

One day at Kennedy Airport, a prominent figure in the Korean Buddhist Order, encountered a television reporter engaged in a sociological survey. The reporter was busy posing a question to various individuals: "What is the greatest problem in the world?" Responses varied from "war" to "global warming" and more. Intrigued, the Reporter approached the Zen Master and presented him with the same thought-provoking query. In response, the Zen teacher asked in his characteristic, gentle manner, "Who are you?" The reporter promptly replied, "I'm John Smith." "That is your name, but who are you?" the Zen Master inquired further. With a hint of confusion, the reporter responded, "Well, I'm a TV reporter for X company." "That is your profession, but who are you?" "I'm a human being, after all!" "Indeed, that is your species, but who are you?" Faced with this persistent line of questioning, the reporter hesitated. He opened his mouth to respond but found himself unable to utter a word. With a knowing smile, the Zen Master gently concluded, "Therein lies the biggest problem the world faces... Not knowing who you are." Ending that profound statement, he departed. Learn about your Self in Level 3: The Freedive.