Something for you to think about..

The Monk and The Frog

The story is told of an old hermit monk who was working in the fields, As he was doing so he came across a remarkable, precious stone that was obviously worth a great deal of money. He took it back to his simple hut, thrilled at his find and excited at the possibilities it presented him with.

Later that day, a weary traveller happened to be passing by and as was his custom the monk offered him hospitality in his simple dwelling. As he was preparing some food over the fire the traveller noticed the monk’s bag on the table and caught sight of the wonderful, precious stone contained within. Over the meal the traveller asked about the stone and the monk took it out of the bag and showed it to him. Such was the beauty of the stone and its obvious value, that the visitor couldn’t help himself and asked the monk if he could have it as a gift. The monk reflected for a moment, shrugged his shoulders and replied ‘Sure, why not’ he said, ‘you are very welcome’.

The traveller thanked him and left hastily with his new prize possession lest the monk change his mind. A few weeks went by and the monk carried on his normal peaceful and simple life. Then one day he heard his name being called and when he looked up saw the same traveller walking towards him. He welcomed him warmly and enquired as to the reason for his visit. ‘I have come to return your stone to you’ he said as he placed the stone back in the monk’s hands, ‘for I am after something far more valuable from you’. The monk was somewhat taken aback as he couldn’t think of anything he owned that would be of more value. But then the traveller continued, ‘I want whatever it is within you that enabled you to give me the stone without hesitation when I asked you for it’.

Think about this a little and let it get under your skin!