Attached to Punctuality As a Fetish

Once, a monk approached the master and said, "Master, I am attached to punctuality. I cannot bear the thought of being late, even for a moment. What should I do?"

The master replied, "Why do you cling to punctuality so tightly? What is it that you fear?"

The monk thought for a moment, then said, "I fear being seen as unreliable or disrespectful. I fear inconveniencing others."

The master nodded. "And yet, by being so attached to punctuality, are you not causing yourself and others unnecessary stress and anxiety? Are you not sacrificing the present moment for the sake of a future that may never come?"

The monk was silent, contemplating the master's words.

The master continued, "Let go of your attachment to punctuality as a fetish. Be present in each moment, and trust that all is unfolding as it should. If you are late, apologize sincerely and make amends. If you are early, use the extra time to cultivate gratitude and awareness. Do not let your fetish for punctuality obscure the beauty and richness of the present moment."

The monk bowed deeply and thanked the master for his wisdom. From that day forward, he made a conscious effort to let go of his attachment to punctuality, and to be fully present in each moment.

In Your Own Way