I have just recently been introduced to Emily Lisker’s wonderful blog, The Urban Mermaid (http://theurbanmermaid.blogspot.com). I recommend it to all of you. She’s been writing it since 2006 so there is so much of merit to find there as you wander through her posts. I came upon this Zen Buddhist’s Tale there. I’d had it among my stash of quotes that I’d collected and carried with me over the years, but it had been lost along the way. Thank you, Emily, for reminding me of it. I share it with you all now.
Maybe
Once upon a time there was an old farmer who had worked his crops for many years. One day his horse ran away. Upon hearing the news, his neighbors came to visit. “Such bad luck,” they said sympathetically.
“Maybe,” the farmer replied.
The next morning the horse returned, bringing with it three other wild horses. “How wonderful,” the neighbors exclaimed.
“Maybe,” replied the old man.
The following day, his son tried to ride one of the untamed horses, was thrown, and broke his leg. The neighbors again came to offer their sympathy on his misfortune.
“Maybe,” answered the farmer.
The day after, military officials came to the village to draft young men into the army. Seeing that the son’s leg was broken, they passed him by. The neighbors congratulated the farmer on how well things had turned out.
“Maybe,” said the farmer.
-A Zen Buddhist Fable
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Good one! It reminds me of some of the stories we heard after 911. There were people who would have been in one of the buildings that collapsed, but were delayed because of traffic, a sick child, etc. You just never know.
It’s true, we never can know. The cursed traffic, the sick child, saved lives. Blessings come in so many different guises. We need to stay open to all of them.
Love this one! Great reminder to judge nothing and stay present!
Yes, indeed.
Wonderful every time it is read….must be a need for seeing it if one does so:)
Thanks Jeane:)
xoxo
Grace
Yes, I felt that way when I bumped into it on Emily’s blog.