54. The Gate Is Open

In Franz Kafka's parable "Before The Law," a man seeks to enter a place called the law, but a gatekeeper stands in his way. The gatekeeper tells the man it is possible for him to enter but not now. The gate is open as always, but the man fears the gatekeeper and never attempts to enter. He waits years for permission, but the gatekeeper employs psychological manipulation and obstructive tactics, preventing entry. As death draws upon him, the man learns that this entrance was his alone, and now that he is dying, the gate will be shut. 

Although the parable is part of a larger story, "The Trial," about a futile attempt for justice, one can broaden the lesson. How often are we persuaded that something is beyond us yet available? It may take some ingenuity, but it is possible. It has never been more possible than today. But will this change our minds? Just like the man standing before the law, something inside us holds us back more than the opportunities available in the world. Maybe it is fear or something deeper. If only we had the right knowledge. I wonder whether we will surrender to “fate” and accept the status quo or give ourselves permission and encouragement to seek the knowledge we need. Time will tell whether we lived a life full of regrets or not. Milton Erickson said, “Don’t ask why the patient is the way he is, ask for what he would change.” And so I ask, what would you change your mind for?