The Path of the Seeker
You walk the slight incline on the trail leading toward the cabin, passing the first of the tall aspens into the woods. These seem like individual trees in a greater forest, but seeing how their roots intermingle just beneath the dirt and how the dark knots in their trunks feel like they all watch you with a single purpose, you wonder whether this is a forest of trees or actually a vast but singular organism. The answer to this question and the countless others that drive you can be answered within the cabin that now stands before you. You stand at its threshold, and you know instinctually that whatever or whoever is inside is aware of your presence.
There are three options that now lie before you. Each leads to the possibility of entry into the cabin—or being barred from it forever. You should be aware of all three options before you make your choice, unless of course you come across an option that instinctually you know is the right one for you.
Option One
You see a small wooden worktable with a clock that has been taken apart. It is clearly a project the cabin’s owner has been tinkering with in their spare time. But, within the pile of delicate clockworks and tools, your eyes are drawn to two thin metal rods, perfect for using to pick the lock of the door to gain entry to the cabin.
Option Two
Beyond the worktable, you notice movement just on the other side of the cabin. Curiosity draws you in to see what caused it. You round the corner of the cabin to see a snare with a rabbit trapped inside. The small creature struggles within the snare. You can see the panic in its eyes, and you realize this must be the cabin owner’s dinner. Looking at the snaring mechanism, you see how easy it would be to set the animal free.
Option Three
You realize there is yet one other option you can choose, an option simple and yet powerful. Those who might not choose this path may scoff at your seeming naïveté. But you know from your own navigations through life that just because something may be the simplest path doesn’t mean it’s the wrong one.
Which option do you choose?
Remember, this is not a choice between what option you think you would take, or hope you’re the kind of person to take. Don’t think. Close your eyes and let your instincts decide.
Do you take the small metal tools and pick the lock, knowing that nothing will stop you from finding the power within?
Do you risk angering the owner of the cabin by releasing the rabbit from the trap, knowing that helping this animal is more important to you than whatever knowledge can be found within?
Or do you knock on the door, having faith that someone will answer?