The Wandering Monk

A Zen Koan.

In the vastness of the desert, a monk marched endlessly, his feet tracing circles in the sand as he passed.

A merchant who often traveled between distant cities to buy and sell rare goods was perplexed by the sight of this monk, whom he had seen many times during his travels.

One day, he approached the monk and asked — "Why do you march without purpose in this desolate place?"

The monk stopped, turned to the traveler, and said — "In the pursuit of purpose, one finds emptiness. In a march of emptiness, one finds purpose."

And with that, he continued his endless march, leaving footprints that were soon swallowed by the desert winds.