The Dharma of the Dolphin

In the graphic novel “Duncan the Wonder Dog”, there is a simple story that I use as an analogy for doing the right thing.

In the story, a dolphin attempts to save a drowning man, but the man smacks the dolphin away.

Unphased by the rebuke, the dolphin once again attempts to help the drowning man, but is once again hit. A bird appears, and starts to question the dolphin:

“Why do you keep doing that? Can’t you see that the wretched creature will only hit you in return?” the bird asked the dolphin.

“Of course,” the dolphin replied. “It is the dharma of a human to attack. But it is the dharma of a dolphin to save.” (emphasis mine)

In other words, when you do the right thing, nothing else matters. Sometimes you will be met with adoration, other times with hate. Therefore, the only thing that influences your actions should be…

Your universal truth.

Your moral code.

Your dharma.

In Marcus Aurelius’ Meditations, there’s a similar story. Marcus is reminding himself of the importance of living the life he deems righteous, no matter the consequences.

His exact words are graphic yet on the mark:

“Like these animal fighters at the games — torn half to pieces covered in blood and gore, and still pleading to be held over till tomorrow… to be bitten and clawed again.”

Dedicating yourself to a life of virtue is a mostly thankless act. In fact, many of today’s systems and institutions reward expediency and dishonesty. It's an unfortunate truth.

Anything worth doing has consequences that in the short term are not attractive.

When you workout, you are getting stronger and healthier, but not without a price. You have to accept that a good workout might make you sore.

You can care for children to the best of your ability, but babies cry, toddlers scream, & teenagers rebel. It's what they do. Don’t take it personally, but also don’t stop doing your best to take good care of them.

You take care of them because you love them, not so they can thank you. Use that thought to anchor you in those rough times.

Sometimes though, the workout feels easy and makes you feel fresh. Sometimes your toddler is oddly obedient and mature. Good. Enjoy it. But you can’t count on those conditions every time. If you do, you are setting yourself up for disappointment.

You do the right thing not for a reward, but because it is the right thing to do.

Because it is worth the consequences.

Because it is your nature.

Knowing what you stand for helps eliminate hesitation when it comes time to act.

“Is this right or wrong?” is the only question worth considering in these difficult situations.

The dolphin knows every time he sees someone in trouble, he will be there to save him. It means nothing to him if he is met with thanks or resistance, because the dharma of the dolphin is to save.

What is yours?

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