The Lawyer’s Well-Being Brief

The Empty Boat and the Practice of Well-Being

“Self-esteem is the ability to see yourself as a flawed individual and still hold yourself in regard.”-Esther Perel

Welcome (back) to the Lawyer’s Well-Being Brief! Each week, I share insights and practical strategies to help us cultivate well-being and thrive — both personally and professionally. Live well! Lawyer well!

The Monk and the Empty Boat

A monk goes out onto a lake in a small wooden boat to meditate. He settles in, closes his eyes, and allows the rhythm of the water to carry him into stillness. Hours pass in uninterrupted silence, a deep calm taking root.

Then suddenly — thud. His boat jolts violently as another boat crashes into the side.

Without opening his eyes, irritation flares. Who would do such a thing? Can’t they see me here? How dare they disturb my meditation? The monk’s mind races with judgment and blame, his peace broken by a surge of anger.

Finally, he opens his eyes, prepared to scold the careless intruder. But to his surprise, the boat is empty. It had come untied from the dock and drifted aimlessly into his.

In an instant, his anger dissolves. How can you be angry at an empty boat?