The Raft Parable, a well-known Buddhist teaching, carries a powerful message about knowing when to hold on and when to let go. Some things serve us for a time, but if we’re not careful, they can start holding us back.
The parable
A man, pursued by enemies, reaches a wide river with no bridge. To survive, he builds a raft, paddles across, and reaches safety.
Grateful for the raft, he decides to carry it on his back, believing it will continue to help him.
But instead, it only increases fatigue and slows him down.
The Buddha asks, “Would this man be wise?”
The answer is no. The raft served its purpose—now it’s time to let it go.
The context
- Some things are useful for a season. A belief, habit, or strategy that once helped you might still feel familiar and comfortable, but that doesn’t mean it’s still serving you.
- Be honest with yourself. Ask: is this still helping me, or am I holding onto it out of fear, habit, or attachment? Letting go is difficult, but clinging to something that no longer serves you is even harder in the long run.
- You don’t have to abandon everything. Some tools and lessons remain valuable, but they should evolve with you. The key is knowing when to release what is weighing you down.
If you feel stuck, ask yourself:
What raft am I still carrying? And is it time to set it down so I can move forward?