Master Tells Stories

Once upon a time in China, there was a man who had set his mind on becoming a government official. When he was young, he diligently studied literature because the emperor at the time held scholars in high esteem. However, by the time the man had become learned, another emperor had ascended the throne before he could become an official. The new emperor happened to place greater emphasis on the military, (laughter) so the man immediately switched from studying literature to learning about military skills. But by the time he had mastered these skills, a third emperor had ascended the throne. This emperor valued neither scholars nor great warriors; (laughter) instead, he preferred those who could entertain him, or possibly play chess with him. He especially liked to play with chess champions. By this time, the man had become advanced in years and could not learn to play chess quickly, because it required intelligence and talent to become a champion and thus be qualified to play with the emperor. Thus, the old man cried on his way home, "I have wasted my whole life!"

Similarly, in this world, we pursue worldly things all the time, which is why we become exhausted. If we do not pursue worldly things, do not seek to fulfill our desires, and do not go after fame and wealth, but do things as time and our background and situation allow, we will be able to live more freely and have more opportunity to pursue spiritual practice. We should be satisfied as long as we make an adequate living. Therefore, we should be smart and not be bound by this world, or overwork for illusory fame.

 

God's Arrangements Are Always The Very Best A Long Pursuit!