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."