It’s said a Buddhist Lama and his student arrived at a stream where, afraid to cross, a girl stood.  The old man took the young woman into his arms and carried her to the opposite shore.

That evening, as they ate their rice the novice spoke, “Master, I have a question.”

Placing his bowl in his lap, the Lama replied, “What is your question?”

“We are instructed,” the lad hesitated, “never to touch a woman.  You carried the girl across the stream.  Please explain.”

The Master’s gazed rested on the campfire.  The hint of a smile. “I left the girl at the stream.  You are still carrying her.”