One day there was an earthquake that shook the entire Zen
temple. Parts of it even collapsed. Many of the monks were
terrified. When the earthquake stopped the teacher said,
"Now you have had the opportunity to see how a Zen man
behaves in a crisis situation. You may have noticed that I
did not panic. I was quite aware of what was happening and
what to do. I led you all to the kitchen, the strongest part
of the temple. It was a good decision, because you see we
have all survived without any injuries. However, despite my
self-control and composure, I did feel a little bit tense -
which you may have deduced from the fact that I drank a
large glass of water, something I never do under ordinary
circumstances."
One of the monks smiled, but didn't say anything.
"What are you laughing at?" asked the teacher.
"That wasn't water," the monk replied, "it was a large glass
of soy sauce."
