6 Zen Stories That Will Radically Change Your Perspective On Life

Zen stories are some of my favorites. They really help put my senses back in order if my ego has grown too large or my world too complicated. These 6 stories were pulled from 101 Zen Stories.

Each made me stop and consider my place in the universe and my views on the world. Enjoy.

Soldiers Of Humanity.

Once a division of the Japanese army was engaged in a sham battle, and some of the officers found it necessary to make their headquarters in Gasan’s temple.

Gasan told his cook: “Let the officers have only the same simple fare we eat.”

This made the army men angry, as they were used to very deferential treatment. One came to Gasan and said: “Who do you think we are? We are soldiers, sacrificing our lives for our country. Why don’t you treat us accordingly?”

Gasan answered sternly: “Who do you think we are? We are soldiers of humanity, aiming to save all sentient beings.”