Control is an illusion from "summary" of Zen in the Art of Archery by Eugen Herrigel
In the practice of archery, there is a fundamental truth that one must come to understand: control is merely an illusion. The archer may believe that they are in control of the bow, the arrow, and the target, but in reality, they are merely a vessel through which the forces of nature act. This understanding is essential to achieving true mastery in the art of archery. When the archer releases the arrow, they must let go of any sense of control or attachment to the outcome. They must trust in the process and allow the arrow to follow its natural course. This requires a deep level of focus and concentration, as well as a willingness to surrender to the flow of the universe. The illusion of control arises from the ego's desire to assert itself and impose its will upon the world. However, true mastery in archery (and in life) can only be achieved by letting go of this illusion and embracing the inherent uncertainty and unpredictability of existence. By relinquishing the need for control, the archer can tap into a deeper source of power and wisdom that transcends the limitations of the ego. This is the essence of Zen in the art of archery – a practice that teaches us to surrender to the present moment and trust in the natural order of things. In the end, the archer comes to realize that true mastery is not about dominating the external world, but about aligning oneself with the innermost truths of existence. It is only by letting go of the illusion of control that one can truly become one with the art of archery and the universe itself.
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