"I set her down by the river an hour ago, why are you still carrying her?"

Hmmm. I've heard different versions of this little story all my life. I appreciate the common sense of course (ie better to live in the present than the past), but something about it always bothered me ie

There's nothing wrong with pondering/analysing one's own past behaviour and experiences, then questioning or clarifying same if need be. There's nothing wrong with asking questions, in my book! And self-examination, as well as examination of one's beliefs and traditions is not only healthy but wise.

So, no offence to the Masters of Zen, but I say -- human beings have had the mental capacity for honest reflection, analysis, self-examination etc for at least a few millenia by now. So, why are you folks grumbling about it?