The Gift of Insults

[Guest guest]

Dear All,

Another zen story from the web. My thanks to the unknown author.

Jai Maa

Nanda

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There once lived a great warrior. Though quite old, he still was

able to defeat any challenger. His reputation extended far and wide

throughout the land and many students gathered to study under him.

 

One day an infamous young warrior arrived at the village. He was

determined to be the first man to defeat the great master. Along

with his strength, he had an uncanny ability to spot and exploit any

weakness in an opponent. He would wait for his opponent to make the

first move, thus revealing a weakness, and then would strike with

merciless force and lightning speed. No one had ever lasted with him

in a match beyond the first move.

 

Much against the advice of his concerned students, the old master

gladly accepted the young warrior's challenge. As the two squared

off for battle, the young warrior began to hurl insults at the old

master. He threw dirt and spit in his face. For hours he verbally

assaulted him with every curse and insult known to mankind. But the

old warrior merely stood there motionless and calm. Finally, the

young warrior exhausted himself. Knowing he was defeated, he left

feeling shamed.

 

Somewhat disappointed that he did not fight the insolent youth, the

students gathered around the old master and questioned him. "How

could you endure such an indignity? How did you drive him away?"

 

"If someone comes to give you a gift and you do not receive it," the

master replied, "to whom does the gift belong?"