WISDOM OF THE WORLD - WEEK 28

Heaven and Hell

A big tough Samurai warrior once went to see a little monk. “Monk,” he said, in a voice accustomed to instant obedience, “Teach me about heaven and hell.”

“The monk looked up at this mighty warrior and replied with utter disdain, “Teach you about heaven and hell? I couldn’t teach you about anything. You’re dirty. You smell. Your blade is rusty. You are a disgrace, an embarrassment to the great tradition of the Samurai. Get out of my sight. I can’t stand you.”

The Samurai was furious. He shook, got all red in the face and was speechless with rage. He pulled out his sword and raised it above him, preparing to slay the monk.

“That’s hell,” said the monk softly.

The Samurai was overwhelmed. The compassion and surrender of this little man who had offered his life to give this teaching to show him hell! He slowly put down his sword, filled with gratitude and suddenly filled with peace.

“And that’s heaven,” said the little monk, softly.

WISDOM OF THE WORLD - WEEK 11

Any pleasure

There was a man who died and found himself in a beautiful place, surrounded by every conceivable comfort. A white jacketed man came to him and said, “You may have anything you choose-any food- any pleasure- any kind of entertainment.”

The man was delighted, and for days he sampled all the delicacies and experiences of which he had dreamed on earth. But one day he grew bored with it all, and calling the attendant to him, he said, “I am tired of all this. I need something to do. What kind of work can you give me?”

The attendant sadly shook his head and replied, I’m sorry, sir. That’s the one thing we can’t do for you. There is no work here for you.

To which the man answered, “That’s a fine thing. I might as well be in hell.”

The attendant said softly, “Where do you think you are?”

HELLEBORE-CHRISTMAS ROSE