Answer to Question #293976 in English for RICK

Question

Think Like A Monk

By Jay Shetty

A Book Excerpt on Being Present 

Adapted from: https://www.spiritualityandpractice.com/book-reviews/excerpts/view/28600/thinklike-a-monk, Date accessed 2021, June 8.

2.1 What is the writer’s argument in EXTRACT B? Quote from the text to support your answer. (2 Marks)

2.2. How do the writer’s word choices support his intended purpose? (3 Marks)

2.3 Discuss your perspective on having a selective presence. Make close reference to EXTRACT B in your response. (4 Marks)

2.4 Summarise FIVE main points of EXTRACT B in a paragraph of not more than 150 words. Indicate your word count at the end of your summary. (5 Marks)

Answer 1

2.1] The writer's argument is that we should not look at the past and concentrate on it but rather focus on the present and the future. He further argues that we should even be focused on elevating our present to the future without even having a look back because we can't reverse it. He says, "We're all familiar with the idea of being in the moment. It's not hard to see that if you're running a race, you won't be able to go back and change how fast you ran at Mile 2. Your only opportunity to succeed is in that moment."

2.2] The writer's choice of words is convincing and encouraging to focus on the present and the future. The writer uses words that mock those who focus on the past by giving an example of an employee who yearns to go to the beach for a vacation but on reaching the beach he can't sip his drinks at peace thinking about the work he left at the office.

2.3] People have a selective presence by choosing to be at present at different times when things are good and being distracted by other matters at different issues like disappointments. He says, ''We spend time at work dreaming about going on a beach vacation, but then, on the beach, long-awaited drink in hand, we're annoyed to find that we can't stop thinking about work. Monks learn that these two scenarios are connected."

2.4] Firstly, We should take the present to another level which is higher than what we already have. Secondly, we should not look back at what has passed since our opportunity for success is in the moment. Thirdly, we should not be willing to live with a selective presence since at one angle it denies us happiness and future focus. Fourthly, yesterday is a dream and tomorrow is the vision thus we should not be concerned about dreams but rather the vision. Fifthly, being present is the only way to live a truly rich and full life. (96)