Remember to "Stay in the Present"
The animated movie Kung Fu Panda may not seem the most likely place to look for spiritual guidance. But it's wonderful cast of cartoon characters—including a huge panda bear named Po—teaches a few timeless lessons. In the movie, Po is destined to become the Dragon Warrior. He receives counsel from Master Oogway, an aged tortoise and senior master of the Jade Palace. Oogway is very wise.
In one scene, Oogway is seen meditating beneath a cherry tree in full blossom. His student Shifu races down the hill in a panic. Stopping at the foot of Oogway and gasping to catch his breath, he informs his mentor, “Master, I have bad news.” Oogway replies, “There is no bad news, simply news.”
Po knows, but doesn’t believe, that his destiny is to become the Dragon Warrior who will defeat Tai Lung, the evil snow leopard. In one of my favorite moments of the movie, Po explains why he cannot be the true Dragon Warrior. His excuses are all based on his past failures and future shortcomings. But Oogway, the enlightened tortoise, simply smiles at him. In a calm and peaceful tone, he delivers this pearl of wisdom: “The past is history; the future a mystery; today is a gift; that’s why they call it The Present.” Believe it! When trials come, stay in the present!