Jun 23, 2022
The Talk
A young man wanted to know the truth about how to live a better life. For this reason, he left his home and sought the wise old man who could help him. As they sat down, the young man began his mission.
Young man: “Guru, I heard you know all the answers, and I beg you to share your knowledge. Can you show me the way?”
Old man: “What do you want to know?”
Young man: “How do I acquire happiness?”
Old man: “It must come from within.”
Young man: “What do you mean?”
Old man: “You see, external things can only temporarily make you happy. You may have everything in the world, but you will still be sad and lonely if your heart is empty. But once the garden of love occupies your heart, it will be your attracting force to all the goodness of humanity, and you will be immensely fulfilled.”
“Also, be grateful for what you have, no matter how small. If you don’t appreciate small things, what makes you think you will cherish the big ones? Gratefulness leads to happiness.”
“Embrace the things beyond your control but dare to change the things you are not happy with for the betterment of yourself and those you care about.”
Young man: “I heard that everything happens for a reason. Why is that?”
Old man: “Now and then, your heart feels heavy when you don’t get the things you’ve been yearning for. Accept that it is not meant to be, and don’t be discouraged. It often means something better is waiting for you. Be patient, even if it means you have to wait longer. Remain awake and grab the opportunity when it knocks on your door.”
Young man: “Tell me about sowing and reaping.”
Old man: “You get what you give. Whatever you do, good or bad. It will always come back to you directly or indirectly. If you plant corn, you will harvest corn. If you work hard, your efforts will bear fruits. If you were given without your labours for whatever reason, that would not satisfy your spirit because you did not work for it. Nothing is more gratifying than knowing you did it yourself.”
Young man: “How do I gain respect from others?”
Old man: “You must give respect first. Don’t expect a smiling face from your neighbours when you don’t smile yourself. We humans respond to the way others treat us. So, if you want to be respected, give respect. And do it to everyone. Also, be honest and fair in all your dealings.”
Feeling satisfied that his quest for wisdom had been met, the young man thanked his Guru and left determined to use the valuable knowledge he gained.
