The Bright River starts in the snowy mountain peak. It flows down, and meanders through the dale to mix with the sea. Its companion, the wind, shifts from wave to wave while telling the story of the river itself…

Once, a peacock came up to a gravel-covered riverbank, and said: “The river disappears in the sands. If you follow me, I will guide you to the bright source.” And so, he and his followers had gone, but the memory of them remained.

Then, a snake slithered out onto the sandy riverside, and said to its brave listeners: “As the river seeps into the sand, it creates underground lakes. If you come along with me, you will find the way leading to them.” And so, they had left, but their tracks remained.

One time, a wild pig came out of a marshy thicket, and said: “There is no way, but if you follow me, I will rid you of useless efforts.” And so, they departed, and upon return, they were not able to see, comprehend and feel.

A sea-fish swam upstream, found quiet headwaters, laid eggs, and playfully rode the waves as it returned back to the sea.

Let there be good!

“The Bright River” is a parable that was written by our teacher, Vova Pyatsky, to aid meditators in their practice.

Watch the illustrated version of the fairytale here:

https://youtu.be/jo3vCQo8caE