tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1312296014844329862024-03-07T01:15:09.709-08:00Inspirational Stories, Moral StoriesBasic aim of this blog is to share good moral stories with moral to all of you. You will find short moral stories with morals here. More than 350 stories are shared in this blog Moral Stories, Inspirational Stories, Motivational Stories, Moral TalesUnknownnoreply@blogger.comBlogger624125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-131229601484432986.post-85286249407454684062023-12-06T02:17:00.000-08:002023-12-06T02:21:26.166-08:00Beyond the Suit: Billy Graham's Profound Reflection on Identity and Destination<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlqPp1bqxdmlq7jXjMxOdveAaU3XbANTVEoRaZ-4igKKVu7kqx8rkEmDIlPxQwCsABj49lTUY6aJuyYIseP9mlOeJqln8ViU515AgPtSFWRuBtzNwl2IM_Xb3CrRRgoGEWe43Z5iAqOJudhWBzR4x826QhCc4puh9YVkvXnst_WAfhuPbzcBW6SiGZ6UM_/s2132/billy.webp" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1421" data-original-width="2132" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlqPp1bqxdmlq7jXjMxOdveAaU3XbANTVEoRaZ-4igKKVu7kqx8rkEmDIlPxQwCsABj49lTUY6aJuyYIseP9mlOeJqln8ViU515AgPtSFWRuBtzNwl2IM_Xb3CrRRgoGEWe43Z5iAqOJudhWBzR4x826QhCc4puh9YVkvXnst_WAfhuPbzcBW6SiGZ6UM_/s320/billy.webp" width="320" /></a></div><br />At the age of 92, Billy Graham, grappling with Parkinson's disease, faced a dilemma when invited to a luncheon in his honor a month before his 93rd birthday in Charlotte, North Carolina. Initially hesitant due to his health challenges, the Charlotte leaders reassured him, expressing a desire to honor him without expecting a major address. Encouraged, Billy agreed to attend.<p></p><p><br />After wonderful things were said about him, Dr. Graham stepped to the podium, looked at the crowd, and said:</p><p><br />"I'm reminded today of Albert Einstein, the great physicist who this month has been honored by Time magazine as the Man of the Century. Einstein was once traveling from Princeton on a train, when the conductor came down the aisle, punching the tickets of every passenger. When he came to Einstein, Einstein reached in his vest pocket. He couldn't find his ticket, so he reached in his trouser pockets. It wasn't there.He looked in his briefcase but couldn't find it. Then he looked in the seat beside him. He still couldn't find it.</p><p><br />"The conductor said, “Dr. Einstein, I know who you are. We all know who you are. I'm sure you bought a ticket. Don't worry about it.” Einstein nodded appreciatively. The conductor continued down the aisle punching tickets. As he was ready to move to the next car,he turned around and saw the great physicist down on his hands and knees looking under his seat for his ticket.</p><p><br />"The conductor rushed back and said, 'Dr. Einstein, Dr. Einstein, don't worry, I know who you are; no problem. You don't need a ticket. I'm sure you bought one.'Einstein looked at him and said, “Young man, I too, know who I am. What I don't know is where I'm going."</p><p><br />Having said that Billy Graham continued, "See the suit I'm wearing? It's a brand new suit. My children, and my grandchildren are telling me I've gotten a little slovenly in my old age. I used to be a bit more fastidious. So I went out and bought a new suit for this luncheon and one more occasion. You know what that occasion is? This is the suit in which I'll be buried. But when you hear I'm dead, I don't want you to immediately remember the suit I'm wearing. I want you to remember this:</p><p><br />"I not only know who I am. I also know where I'm going." May your troubles be less, your blessings more, and may nothing but happiness, come through your door. "Life without God is like an unsharpened pencil - it has no point."</p><p><br />May each of us have lived our lives so that when our ticket is punched we don't have to worry about where we are going<br /></p>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-131229601484432986.post-2264871817703975762023-06-16T00:17:00.005-07:002023-06-16T00:43:08.877-07:00It is More Blessed to Give - Christmas Story<p><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-family: arial;"></span></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-n0F__O7LxrwuWjcl13QqzXOhmvVwidngrqVQUV4tYu1svGBhCRSD71WB9LV3l5IwsIE66eIMeuge9i-Gmn46sOrKn4Iet3qgVgtRN0cQls-4p8dyjk0BCDPUhk-hozanZK6bRzDjrwD38ZSoquwsO9h4S62-nvdXyr2Jv8GoXfdp3_EPG5XzxxI4-Q/s660/car.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="426" data-original-width="660" height="244" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-n0F__O7LxrwuWjcl13QqzXOhmvVwidngrqVQUV4tYu1svGBhCRSD71WB9LV3l5IwsIE66eIMeuge9i-Gmn46sOrKn4Iet3qgVgtRN0cQls-4p8dyjk0BCDPUhk-hozanZK6bRzDjrwD38ZSoquwsO9h4S62-nvdXyr2Jv8GoXfdp3_EPG5XzxxI4-Q/w377-h244/car.jpg" width="377" /></a></span></span></div><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /> </span></span><p></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-family: arial;">On the evening of Christmas Eve, George left his office and discovered a young boy admiring his brand-new car. Intrigued, the boy asked, "Is this your car, sir?" George nodded and replied, "Yes, my brother gave it to me as a Christmas present." The boy was taken aback and exclaimed, "Your brother gave you a car for free? The boy was surprised. "You mean your brother gave it to you and it didn't cost you anything? Boy, I wish..." He hesitated. George knew what he was going to wish for. He was going to wish he had a brother like the one George has. But what the lad said was far beyond Goerges' expectation. "I wish," the boy went on, "that I could be a brother like that."<br /><br />For a few seconds words failed Reggie and then he impulsively added, "Would you like to take a ride in my automobile?"</span></span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-family: arial;">Excitedly, the boy accepted the offer. After a short drive, the boy requested that George stop in front of his house. George assumed the boy wanted to show off the luxurious car to his neighbors. However, he was mistaken.<br /><br />"Can you stop by those two steps?" the boy asked. He hurriedly went up the steps and returned, carrying his younger brother, who had physical challenges. Placing him on the bottom step, the boy snuggled up next to him and proudly pointed at the car. "Look, Buddy, just like I described earlier. His brother gave it to him for Christmas, and he didn't have to pay anything. Someday, I'll give you a car like this, and then you can see all the beautiful things in the Christmas windows that I've been telling you about."<br /><br />George got out of the car and helped the boy settle his brother in the front seat. With joy gleaming in their eyes, the three embarked on a memorable holiday ride.<br /><br />That Christmas Eve, George learned the profound meaning behind Jesus' words: "It is more blessed to give..."</span></span></p>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-131229601484432986.post-6984872908552811892023-06-08T02:36:00.006-07:002023-06-13T05:19:19.247-07:00Insights of the Blind: Embracing Perspectives to Uncover Truth<p style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: medium;"></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5PYbMPY8L9YfkcWB0h_M750oKQ42Yjf-v_3IiuSGtkTy07u4uPuyprrf9LkUaiv7CugXMLlFf93xbQgHqceObin8wCv5Nn3AuY1wFL1rYnjuiwcNqhKz_f6-NVWrawTmDmDV6fFhvPu0VTiHnRq_70olYGjHzdW5e7t7xQYoN9iW425fdk5RAd0AT6A/s640/wealth3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="384" data-original-width="640" height="342" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5PYbMPY8L9YfkcWB0h_M750oKQ42Yjf-v_3IiuSGtkTy07u4uPuyprrf9LkUaiv7CugXMLlFf93xbQgHqceObin8wCv5Nn3AuY1wFL1rYnjuiwcNqhKz_f6-NVWrawTmDmDV6fFhvPu0VTiHnRq_70olYGjHzdW5e7t7xQYoN9iW425fdk5RAd0AT6A/w569-h342/wealth3.jpg" width="569" /></a></span></div><span style="font-size: medium;"><br />Once upon a time, in a small village, there resided a group of blind men. They lived their lives without ever truly knowing what an elephant looked like or how it appeared to the sighted world. One day, a piece of exciting news spread among the villagers—the owner of the village had acquired an elephant. The blind men were intrigued by this fascinating creature they had only heard of through stories.<br /><br />Eager to gain knowledge and understand this majestic animal, the blind men gathered together to discuss their plan. They agreed that in order to comprehend the elephant, they must rely on their sense of touch. They sought permission from the owner and were granted access to the magnificent beast.<br /><br />As they approached the elephant, a wave of anticipation washed over them. One by one, they cautiously reached out, exploring the unknown with their hands. The first blind man, his hands grazing the sturdy leg of the elephant, confidently declared, "The elephant is like a pillar!"<br /><br />The second blind man, feeling the swaying tail, had a different perspective. He argued, "No, my friends, the elephant is like a rope, flexible and slender."<br /><br />The third blind man extended his hand, feeling the long, powerful trunk of the elephant. He declared, "You both are mistaken. The elephant is akin to a thick branch of a tree."<br /><br />The fourth blind man, gently touching the large, flapping ear, expressed his own interpretation, "No, the elephant is more like a grand hand fan, capable of creating a gentle breeze."<br /><br />Lastly, the fifth blind man, his hands exploring the vast belly of the elephant, insisted, "None of you truly understand. The elephant is like an enormous wall, solid and impenetrable."<br /><br />As each blind man passionately shared their individual experiences, their differing descriptions sparked a heated debate. Confusion and disagreement filled the air, with each one firmly believing they held the truth about the elephant's nature. It seemed impossible to reconcile their conflicting views.<br /><br />Observing the commotion, a wise old man approached the group. His eyes may have been dim, but his insight was profound. He gathered the attention of the blind men and spoke in a calm, soothing voice.<br /><br />"All of you," he began, "are both right and wrong. The reason for your differing descriptions is simple. Each one of you touched a different part of the elephant. So, in reality, the elephant possesses all those features that you have described."<br /><br />As the wise old man's words sank in, understanding slowly illuminated their minds. The blind men realized that their limited perspectives prevented them from comprehending the complete truth. Their individual experiences merely provided glimpses of the whole, but none of them had grasped the entirety of the elephant's magnificent presence.<br /><br />The moral of this story is that truth can be subjective and dependent on one's limited perspective. Just like the blind men, we often form incomplete judgments based on our individual experiences and perceptions. It is only by embracing diverse viewpoints and combining them that we can gain a more comprehensive understanding of the world around us.<br /><br />This story teaches us the importance of open-mindedness, empathy, and collaboration. It encourages us to recognize that different people may have different perspectives and interpretations based on their unique experiences. By actively listening and seeking to understand each other's viewpoints, we can broaden our horizons and cultivate a more inclusive and harmonious society.</span><p></p>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-131229601484432986.post-59338717853651199312023-06-02T00:19:00.007-07:002023-06-13T05:22:34.989-07:00Lessons in Anger: The Consequences of Uncontrolled Emotions<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1ca86u7SwruKPK8E_kr7AqRUHDKyL_13wm7Qoyp7LuvSjiOB1dhessi1PsrllVXoJkLlh7iqyDurQ1BZ46OR_zy6t9zGxaiuoy6WxNpGIlfgmGNA5hNsGa9gzkIzZI_YSc84Is7_0TPXKkFWTQpHA2xvwsFZ684JKNL5e0HjER5Tbsmgrhbf55HIr4w/s1024/joyful.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="577" data-original-width="1024" height="275" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1ca86u7SwruKPK8E_kr7AqRUHDKyL_13wm7Qoyp7LuvSjiOB1dhessi1PsrllVXoJkLlh7iqyDurQ1BZ46OR_zy6t9zGxaiuoy6WxNpGIlfgmGNA5hNsGa9gzkIzZI_YSc84Is7_0TPXKkFWTQpHA2xvwsFZ684JKNL5e0HjER5Tbsmgrhbf55HIr4w/w488-h275/joyful.jpg" width="488" /></a></div><br />In the workplace, I harbored a growing resentment towards my colleague, Anuj, who frequently shirked his responsibilities and burdened me with his unfinished tasks. My frustration continued to mount, reaching its peak when Anuj, instead of delivering money from a customer to the cashier for a receipt, handed it to me. I held onto that money for several days, but when Anuj eventually retrieved it from where I had kept it and handed it to the cashier, he accused me of stealing it. Despite my frantic search in my drawer, the money remained elusive. It turned out that Anuj had taken it and facilitated the issuance of the receipt.<br /><br />Enraged by this turn of events, I succumbed to my anger and engaged in a heated exchange with Anuj, which tragically escalated into a physical altercation. Throughout this confrontation, a voice in my mind pleaded for calmness, urging me not to succumb to anger. Regrettably, my inability to control my emotions resulted in severe consequences. I was expelled from my position by the senior office staff due to the physical altercation. After dedicating eight years of my life to that office, I suddenly found myself unemployed and adrift.<br /><br />In the aftermath of losing my job, a profound realization dawned upon me: harboring anger and engaging in confrontations is futile and self-destructive. I recognized the importance of maintaining composure, choosing calmness over quarrels, and treating others with respect and politeness. This experience served as a crucial life lesson that I deeply internalized.<br /><br />Observing the world around me, I witnessed countless instances where people resorted to violence over trivial disputes. One particular incident struck a chord within me, wherein two individuals pulled an unsuspecting driver out of his car, pummeled him with bricks, and tragically ended his life. It was revealed that the entire altercation had stemmed from a seemingly insignificant argument. This event served as a stark reminder of the biblical verse admonishing against anger.<br /><br />Through my own personal journey and the observations I made, I discovered the destructive nature of anger and the importance of embracing peace and tranquility in all aspects of life. It taught me to let go of grudges, communicate with empathy, and seek resolution through understanding rather than confrontation. This newfound wisdom instilled in me a profound appreciation for the power of calmness, and the transformative impact it can have on our interactions with others and our own well-being.<p></p>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-131229601484432986.post-90600158698642994972023-06-01T23:58:00.003-07:002023-06-13T05:26:46.676-07:00The Tied Cat: Unraveling Rituals and Seeking Meaning<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiW0QGDltnhJra7zUDwMubTBJtGvI2HxnzyNgVH8xOZIlQN1_z5HlTnPCJs0nz80Iy5nwHuAGettWCqpeGZJFBeftYbRog6OpgodbWgL6xJhBSrDP0iRKoGyAAR_OR4B3to8Q3cdTAxXHBmCHt6TWT6G436VpTe7-KZF68Rv-DetSMyL2_h_MPgV7JNJw/s419/cat.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="245" data-original-width="419" height="288" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiW0QGDltnhJra7zUDwMubTBJtGvI2HxnzyNgVH8xOZIlQN1_z5HlTnPCJs0nz80Iy5nwHuAGettWCqpeGZJFBeftYbRog6OpgodbWgL6xJhBSrDP0iRKoGyAAR_OR4B3to8Q3cdTAxXHBmCHt6TWT6G436VpTe7-KZF68Rv-DetSMyL2_h_MPgV7JNJw/w494-h288/cat.jpg" width="494" /></a></div><br />In a small village, there resided a Pandit, also known as a Poojari, whose role was to perform religious rituals at the local temple. One fortunate day, the Pandit came across a charming and adorable cat. Captivated by its endearing nature, the Pandit decided to bring the cat home and care for it as a beloved pet.<br /><br />The bond between the Pandit and the cat grew stronger each passing day. They ate together, slept together, and the cat faithfully followed the Pandit wherever he went. The Pandit showered the cat with affection and ensured its well-being.<br /><br />However, a peculiar situation arose during the worship rituals conducted by the Pandit. As part of the customary offering, milk had to be presented to the deities in the temple. Whenever the cat spotted the milk, it couldn't resist indulging in a sip. This posed a problem for the Pandit, as the cat did not comprehend that the milk was meant for the divine and not for its consumption. The cat would innocently drink the sacred milk intended for the gods.<br /><br />To avoid any further embarrassing incidents, the Pandit devised a solution. Before commencing the worship rituals, he began tying the cat to a nearby tree. This became a routine practice, ensuring that the cat remained restrained during the period of worship. Once the rituals concluded, the Pandit would release the cat from its temporary captivity.<br /><br />Years went by, and the Pandit eventually passed away. His son, eager to continue the family tradition, assumed the responsibility of performing the worship rituals. Without understanding the reasoning behind tying the cat, the son faithfully followed his father's customs. He believed that securing a cat before the worship was an integral part of the ritual.<br /><br />As time went on, the cat also passed away, leaving the succeeding generations of the Pandit's family in a state of confusion. Unaware of the original purpose behind tying a cat, they were under the impression that the ritual could only be fulfilled by employing a cat. However, no cats were available in their village, causing them distress and a sense of incompleteness during their worship. Determined to restore the satisfaction they once experienced, they decided to procure a cat from a neighboring village. Once they had the cat in their possession, they promptly tied it to a tree and proceeded with their worship ritual, finding solace in its completion.<br /><br />This tale serves as a reflection of our own lives. Often, we find ourselves engaged in certain practices or rituals without comprehending their true significance. Just like the descendants of the Pandit, we continue these customs without questioning their purpose. We may unknowingly become trapped in a cycle of tradition, carrying out actions devoid of understanding. It is essential for us to seek knowledge and understanding, to explore the meaning behind our rituals and practices. By doing so, we can ensure that our actions are rooted in genuine purpose and not merely empty gestures.<p></p>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-131229601484432986.post-11033665043594456242023-06-01T23:46:00.004-07:002023-06-01T23:46:56.284-07:00From Persecution to Assistance: A Tale of Forgiveness and Unexpected Help<p>In the early days of our association in the office, Vikram, my colleague, seemed like a constant thorn in my side. Despite being only a week senior to me, he managed to make my work life challenging. However, being a devout Christian, I held onto the teachings of Jesus, who urged us to love and forgive even those who mistreat us. So, I chose to love and forgive Vikram for his actions.<br /><br />As time passed, Vikram was transferred to another company, and I gradually let go of the memories of his misdeeds. Years went by, and I found myself facing the difficult situation of being unemployed, desperately searching for a job. One day, out of the blue, I received a call from another colleague who informed me that Vikram was resigning from his current position. Furthermore, there was a job opening in his company, and my colleague directed me to contact Vikram.<br /><br />Following my colleague's advice, I reached out to Vikram, and to my surprise, he was more than willing to help. He arranged an interview for me at his company, allowing me a chance to secure the vacant position. It was a remarkable turnaround. The very person who had once caused me trouble had now become instrumental in providing assistance during my time of need.<br /><br />This experience taught me a profound life lesson: the ones who persecute us today might eventually become our allies in times of trouble. It served as a powerful reminder of the importance of forgiveness, love, and maintaining a compassionate attitude even in the face of adversity. We never know how circumstances may change, and the people we least expect could play a significant role in shaping our future.</p>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-131229601484432986.post-38006912952974339952023-05-25T01:08:00.003-07:002023-06-13T04:57:28.829-07:00 The Three Beggars and the Good Millionaire: A Lesson in Divine Grace<p><span face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: #222222; display: inline; float: none; font-size: small; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-decoration-color: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;"></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: #222222; display: inline; float: none; font-size: small; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-decoration-color: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsX1sbrJRpTlon_8Jgeauu-XMzredaa9VjVcbkysuMa0ngBT144vtd3tcnDrKUlvygzh0rznEIGT1lrnxtxmwFLjswoYaczs-MhdCOhcU01XTvaCHLTRiKksE3k_GEsCgecPUOWKJEJTphPvYwsWMrcQH1wWz7qPW7llrDajbabCB-XKWdM_1UJEa-CQ/s474/akshardham.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="266" data-original-width="474" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsX1sbrJRpTlon_8Jgeauu-XMzredaa9VjVcbkysuMa0ngBT144vtd3tcnDrKUlvygzh0rznEIGT1lrnxtxmwFLjswoYaczs-MhdCOhcU01XTvaCHLTRiKksE3k_GEsCgecPUOWKJEJTphPvYwsWMrcQH1wWz7qPW7llrDajbabCB-XKWdM_1UJEa-CQ/s320/akshardham.jpg" width="320" /></a></span></div><span face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: #222222; display: inline; float: none; font-size: small; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-decoration-color: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;"><br />Once in a town, there resided a kind-hearted millionaire who had gained great wealth through his endeavors. Meanwhile, three beggars pondered over seeking help from him. The first man approached the millionaire and audaciously demanded, "O Lord! I am in need of five rupees. Please give them to me." Taken aback by the beggar's impudence, the millionaire responded sternly, "How dare you demand as though I owe you money! I cannot afford to give five rupees to a single beggar. Here, take these two rupees and leave." The beggar accepted the two rupees and departed.</span><br style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-decoration-color: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;" /><br style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-decoration-color: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;" /><span face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: #222222; display: inline; float: none; font-size: small; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-decoration-color: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;">Next, the second beggar approached the millionaire, expressing his plight, "Oh Lord! I have not had a proper meal for the past ten days. Please lend me a helping hand." Curious, the millionaire inquired, "How much do you require?" The beggar humbly replied, "Whatever you deem fit, Maharaj." Appreciating his humility, the millionaire handed him a ten rupee note, saying, "With this, you can enjoy good food for at least three days." Grateful, the beggar walked away with the ten rupee note.</span><br style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-decoration-color: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;" /><br style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-decoration-color: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;" /><span face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: #222222; display: inline; float: none; font-size: small; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-decoration-color: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;">The third beggar then arrived, praising the noble qualities of the millionaire, "Oh Lord, I have heard of your benevolence and have come to pay my respects. Individuals like you, with such charitable disposition, are truly the manifestations of God on earth." Welcoming the beggar, the millionaire invited him to sit down and offered him a sumptuous meal. Touched by this gesture, the beggar exclaimed, "Oh Lord, I only came to meet a noble soul like yourself. You have already blessed me with this abundant feast. What more could I possibly ask for? Your extraordinary kindness has left a profound impact on me. May God bless you!"</span><br style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-decoration-color: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;" /><br style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-decoration-color: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;" /><span face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: #222222; display: inline; float: none; font-size: small; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-decoration-color: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;">Deeply moved by the beggar's spirit of contentment and gratitude, the millionaire insisted that he stay with him. He built a comfortable house within his own compound for the beggar and ensured his well-being for the remainder of his life.</span><br style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-decoration-color: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;" /><br style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-decoration-color: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;" /><span face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: #222222; display: inline; float: none; font-size: small; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-decoration-color: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;">This tale reflects the nature of God, likened to the benevolent millionaire. Individuals from various walks of life approach God with distinct desires and prayers. The first category comprises greedy individuals, filled with vanity and arrogance, seeking worldly pleasures. Despite their flawed desires, God, appreciating their decision to approach Him, grants them some portion of their requested objects. However, these fleeting possessions, similar to the two rupees the first beggar received, quickly dissipate.</span><br style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-decoration-color: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;" /><br style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-decoration-color: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;" /><span face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: #222222; display: inline; float: none; font-size: small; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-decoration-color: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;">The second category consists of devotees who beseech God for respite from worldly sufferings. However, they exhibit a higher level of surrender by accepting the Divine Will. To these sincere devotees, God grants relief from their afflictions and bestows material wealth and abundance.</span><br style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-decoration-color: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;" /><br style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-decoration-color: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;" /><span face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: #222222; display: inline; float: none; font-size: small; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-decoration-color: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;">The third type of devotee approaches God without any specific desire, recognizing Him as the embodiment of Absolute Existence, Knowledge, and Bliss. They seek nothing but offer pure devotion, renunciation, and self-surrender. God, profoundly pleased by their genuine spirit, blesses them with His own sustenance. This ultimate devotion is bestowed upon them, allowing them to reside in the Lord's abode. From that point onwards, these devotees dwell in eternal bliss as liberated sages.</span><br style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-decoration-color: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;" /><p></p>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-131229601484432986.post-91538273287079137622023-05-25T00:41:00.006-07:002023-05-25T00:46:42.574-07:00The Smile that Resonates: Vikas Khanna's Touching Encounter and the Ripple of Kindness<p> Vikas Khanna, who is a renowned chef, cookbook writer, filmmaker, restaurateur, and humanitarian, but most popularly known as the judge of MasterChef India, has a massive fanbase.<br /><br />In 2013, Vikas Khanna was on a flight from Mumbai to New York via London. On the same plane, an air hostess approached him and requested a few minutes of his time to meet a woman who was eager to speak to him.<br /><br />Khanna graciously agreed, showcasing his well-known generosity. A woman in her 60s, adorned in a beautiful saree with flowers adorning her hair, came to see him. He respectfully bowed down and greeted her. <br /></p><p>Speaking in her lovely Maharashtrian accent, the woman explained that she had noticed Khanna boarding the plane and felt a strong desire to meet him. Curious, Khanna inquired about her hometown, to which she humbly replied that he might not have heard of it as it was a small village in Kolhapur where she had been married. Khanna enthusiastically responded, "Yes, it is one of my favorite cities, known for the contrast of the best jaggery and the best chilies."<br /><br />A warm smile graced the woman's face, and she urged him to smile as well, much like a mother encouraging her child to greet others. Khanna reciprocated the smile, and the woman, with watery eyes, looked at him and expressed her heartfelt gratitude.<br /><br />As the encounter came to an end, the woman stood up to leave. Before departing, she revealed that she watched every episode of MasterChef India solely to witness Khanna's smile because it reminded her of her late son and brought him back to life, if only for a moment.<br /><br />Vikas Khanna was momentarily frozen, deeply moved by her words. The woman bestowed her blessings upon him and departed. Khanna later shared that whenever he feels down or overwhelmed, he recalls the woman's heartfelt sentiments and smiles, striving to bring joy to her face.<br /><br />This heartwarming story exemplifies the essence of kindness. Often, we may not fully grasp the significance of our actions, whether intentional or not, towards others. However, these acts of goodness have a positive impact on ourselves as well, shaping our perspective and reminding us of the power of compassion.<br /></p>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-131229601484432986.post-44677484527054106442023-05-24T23:43:00.003-07:002023-06-13T05:47:49.012-07:00From Car Washer to Canine Connoisseur: The Tale of Vijender's Dog Walking Empire<p><span face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: #222222; display: inline; float: none; font-size: small; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-decoration-color: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;"></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: #222222; display: inline; float: none; font-size: small; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-decoration-color: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3ITRzda9SlCWet58GM0IxEiYQjPAibuBEhy0e7v2RdCzYvldQauxtJp23fb0R6MjrKYLHlkA0L5xEY2cLLn5cHHR7xgx7MeBQ-VH2CJUtmwwIHqd22GDiu6MPtuiq7KBM5EhmY1bXB4jgzp35JYam-riIrHzRNBvK8Gn-rQ4zUs3sQSJqgDMY46FKvw/s1920/dog_walking.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1280" data-original-width="1920" height="336" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3ITRzda9SlCWet58GM0IxEiYQjPAibuBEhy0e7v2RdCzYvldQauxtJp23fb0R6MjrKYLHlkA0L5xEY2cLLn5cHHR7xgx7MeBQ-VH2CJUtmwwIHqd22GDiu6MPtuiq7KBM5EhmY1bXB4jgzp35JYam-riIrHzRNBvK8Gn-rQ4zUs3sQSJqgDMY46FKvw/w505-h336/dog_walking.jpg" width="505" /></a></span></div><span face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: #222222; display: inline; float: none; font-size: small; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-decoration-color: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;">Once upon a time, in a bustling society, Vijender found himself working as a car washing guy. It was a humble job that barely provided enough to meet his daily needs. However, fate had something unexpected in store for him that would change his life forever.</span><br style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-decoration-color: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;" /><br style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-decoration-color: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;" /><span face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: #222222; display: inline; float: none; font-size: small; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-decoration-color: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;">One fine day, a resident of the society approached Vijender and asked if he could take their dog for a walk for 45 minutes every day. They were willing to pay him Rs. 1500 per month for this service. Vijender, always eager to seize any opportunity, gladly accepted the offer. Little did he know that this simple task would become the foundation of his entrepreneurial journey.</span><br style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-decoration-color: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;" /><br style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-decoration-color: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;" /><span face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: #222222; display: inline; float: none; font-size: small; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-decoration-color: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;">As Vijender began walking the dog, other dog owners in the society took notice of his dedication and reliable service. Word quickly spread, and soon enough, more dog owners sought his assistance. Before he knew it, Vijender had a clientele of 15 dogs, each requiring their daily exercise.</span><br style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-decoration-color: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;" /><br style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-decoration-color: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;" /><span face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: #222222; display: inline; float: none; font-size: small; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-decoration-color: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;">Resourceful and efficient, Vijender devised a plan to optimize his dog walking service. If the dogs were small, he would take two of them together to the park, maximizing his time and efforts. The quality of his service and the satisfaction of his clients continued to grow, leading to a remarkable turning point in his life.</span><br style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-decoration-color: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;" /><br style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-decoration-color: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;" /><span face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: #222222; display: inline; float: none; font-size: small; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-decoration-color: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;">When I recently met Vijender, I was astonished to see him riding a brand new Bajaj bike, worth around 150000 rupees. Curious about his success, I inquired about his dog walking business. Vijender's face beamed with pride as he explained how his venture had expanded.</span><br style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-decoration-color: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;" /><br style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-decoration-color: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;" /><span face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: #222222; display: inline; float: none; font-size: small; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-decoration-color: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;">He had transitioned from being the sole dog walker to overseeing the business with a team of nine employees. Each of his employees had an identification card, ensuring professionalism and accountability. Vijender paid them a respectable salary of around 12 thousand rupees per month for their dedicated dog walking services.</span><br style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-decoration-color: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;" /><br style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-decoration-color: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;" /><span face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: #222222; display: inline; float: none; font-size: small; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-decoration-color: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;">The demand for dog walking had skyrocketed, and Vijender's business had grown exponentially. He now managed a staggering 125 dogs, a testament to his exceptional service and rapport with his clients. With his reliable team in place, Vijender could focus on managing the business, ensuring customer satisfaction, and expanding his reach.</span><br style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-decoration-color: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;" /><br style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-decoration-color: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;" /><span face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: #222222; display: inline; float: none; font-size: small; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-decoration-color: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;">As the business thrived, so did Vijender's income. The once humble car washing guy had transformed into a successful entrepreneur. His dedication, meticulousness, and passion for providing excellent service had paid off. Vijender was not only proud of the income he had achieved but also the positive impact he was making in the lives of the dogs he cared for.</span><br style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-decoration-color: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;" /><br style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-decoration-color: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;" /><span face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: #222222; display: inline; float: none; font-size: small; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-decoration-color: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;">Vijender's success story serves as an inspiration to all aspiring entrepreneurs. It demonstrates the power of seizing opportunities, delivering exceptional service, and adapting to meet the demands of a growing market. With his perseverance and entrepreneurial spirit, Vijender had transformed his life, proving that even the most unexpected beginnings can lead to extraordinary achievements.</span><p></p>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-131229601484432986.post-82661638554806070532023-05-22T21:30:00.005-07:002023-06-13T05:48:40.207-07:00The Monk's Unwavering Resilience<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgghK-QZP4bdiwAVHPM-aZ897_TrIgIwuPWFonp_vmUDMq9J4SxrEWciPMGI9f-BEPLvTWDLadhLvQg-k7YdfDH_y-4Mb-0xTZhE2l014Bp6lHsNv-AXRGIp-cW7XoHQD9LlZM7kNVhpjaIa5_Vsn_O9XfNKq0LPdmOdosINZZtBMrIsi4aNtRdTDRXsw/s474/monk.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="316" data-original-width="474" height="309" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgghK-QZP4bdiwAVHPM-aZ897_TrIgIwuPWFonp_vmUDMq9J4SxrEWciPMGI9f-BEPLvTWDLadhLvQg-k7YdfDH_y-4Mb-0xTZhE2l014Bp6lHsNv-AXRGIp-cW7XoHQD9LlZM7kNVhpjaIa5_Vsn_O9XfNKq0LPdmOdosINZZtBMrIsi4aNtRdTDRXsw/w465-h309/monk.jpg" width="465" /></a></div><br /><p><br />Once there was a monk who resided in a peaceful village. One fateful day, a young village girl found herself pregnant, and in fear of exposing her boyfriend, she resorted to pointing her finger at the monk when her parents questioned her about the responsible party.<br /><br />Infuriated, her parents unleashed their anger upon the monk, and the entire village joined in the accusatory chorus. Harsh words filled the air as they condemned him, branding him a "dirty old man," a disgrace, and a hypocrite. Some even threatened his life.<br /><br />Amidst the barrage of accusations, the monk calmly replied, "Is that so?" and retreated to his meditation practice, seeking solace within himself. Months passed, and the young girl gave birth to a baby, leaving her parents in a predicament as they sought to find a father for the child.<br /><br />Filled with desperation, they approached the monk along with the villagers, demanding that he take responsibility for the baby. Once again, the monk calmly responded, "Is that so?" Taking the young baby into his arms, he embraced his new role.<br /><br />Though his reputation had been tarnished, the monk carried out his duty with utmost care and devotion, seeking assistance from his neighbors to provide everything the child needed, including milk and other essentials. Undeterred by the loss of his standing in the village, he focused solely on the well-being of the baby.<br /><br />As time passed, guilt and shame consumed the young girl, compelling her to reveal the truth to her parents. The moment the villagers learned the real story, a wave of remorse washed over them, realizing the depth of their wrongful accusations against the monk.<br /><br />Driven by a newfound understanding, the villagers gathered and approached the monk, humbly seeking forgiveness. Once again, the monk listened to their words and calmly replied, "Is that so?" He gently handed the baby back to the young girl, signifying his acceptance and forgiveness.<br /><br />In this tale of unwavering resilience, the monk stood firm in the face of false accusations, knowing his innocence. He exemplified the unwavering strength of righteousness, emphasizing that the judgment of a thousand angels against the truth holds no weight, while the support of ten thousand angels for a falsehood carries no significance.<br /><br />The village learned a profound lesson about the power of perception, the destructive force of baseless accusations, and the importance of seeking the truth before passing judgment. And the monk, having exemplified forgiveness and grace, continued his path with unwavering compassion, inspiring others to question their own actions and perceptions.</p>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-131229601484432986.post-80772778337242208232023-05-22T21:15:00.007-07:002023-06-13T05:48:58.342-07:00 A Comical Chronicle: The Pastor's Donkey and the Power of Perception<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><p><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFQBZA6RB2f7bE6wG7rnhgeIUhTu-WtpIWrTO7A7TFogrkyVW3Bl11t6EX8yfHjEs_hznYjRtGwdKJWwFINb94zEyQUz5ZxLpcUxzeJ2--dNItxz1WmlEuq79zlPVJkz7FcyPJnEDbHAt4gvahJnstAgJIhmsiv-j0w7nNr4Ealj5bHuCMZn-MXp8QAg/s474/pastors%20donkey.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="266" data-original-width="474" height="256" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFQBZA6RB2f7bE6wG7rnhgeIUhTu-WtpIWrTO7A7TFogrkyVW3Bl11t6EX8yfHjEs_hznYjRtGwdKJWwFINb94zEyQUz5ZxLpcUxzeJ2--dNItxz1WmlEuq79zlPVJkz7FcyPJnEDbHAt4gvahJnstAgJIhmsiv-j0w7nNr4Ealj5bHuCMZn-MXp8QAg/w455-h256/pastors%20donkey.jpg" width="455" /></a></span></p></div><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: medium;"><br />Once upon a time, there was a pastor who decided to enter his donkey into a race. To his delight, the donkey emerged victorious, filling him with a sense of pride and accomplishment.<br /><br />Bolstered by the donkey's triumph, the pastor decided to enter it in yet another race, where, once again, it emerged as the winner. The local newspaper, aiming for a playful headline, read: "Pastor's Ass Out Front."<br /><br />However, the bishop, feeling displeased with the attention garnered by such publicity, instructed the pastor to refrain from entering the donkey in any future races. Seeking to assert his authority, the bishop hoped to avoid any further attention.<br /><br />The following day, the local newspaper published a headline that read: "Bishop Scratches the Pastor's Ass," highlighting the bishop's decision to prevent the pastor from participating in races. The unintended comical nature of the headline added to the lighthearted confusion.<br /><br />Overwhelmed by the situation, the bishop instructed the pastor to find a new home for the donkey. Taking this opportunity, the pastor decided to gift the donkey to a nun residing in a nearby convent, hoping it would find a peaceful and loving home.<br /><br />Unbeknownst to the pastor, the local newspaper caught wind of this development, and their headline exclaimed: "Nun Has the Best Ass in Town." The play on words and innocent humor added to the absurdity of the situation, much to the bishop's dismay.<br /><br />Frustrated and desperate to put an end to the ongoing confusion, the bishop urged the nun to sell the donkey to a farmer for a mere $10. The following day, the newspaper published yet another headline: "Nun Sells Ass for $10," furthering the hilarity surrounding the events.<br /><br />The bishop, at his wit's end, eventually relented and instructed the nun not to sell the donkey but to release the donkey into the high plains, allowing it to roam freely. The newspaper, seizing the opportunity for one last witty remark, proclaimed: "Nun Announces Her Ass Is Wild and Free."<br /><br />And so, as life would have it, the bishop passed away the following day. The tale ends with a comical twist, serving as a reminder of the dangers of being overly concerned with public opinion. The moral of the story becomes clear: By embracing one's true self and enjoying life without worrying about others' judgments, one can live a longer, happier existence.</span></p>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-131229601484432986.post-23845511740030754562023-05-22T21:05:00.002-07:002023-06-13T05:49:22.012-07:00 A Farmer's Challenge: Old Cock vs. Young Cock - An Unexpected Twist<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLw-aklWKBZ_DEVkLUIZ1lTOOIQIOXr5AKRhvE7zgF3kzAyhjTtPNgrpk7OxzbvPjtK0gch0xoW-dmdKrTzyw-EAeT-B4bGKPdlx9F_FUEGjCbCB5rYQ_ZdshHfqNvqf6hu5XyA_NjEpFQh7yT_4Gj5FmdHWWKiVLQgk6fK7wM70nTZ_czoNG2eCQ53w/s800/rooster.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="533" data-original-width="800" height="302" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLw-aklWKBZ_DEVkLUIZ1lTOOIQIOXr5AKRhvE7zgF3kzAyhjTtPNgrpk7OxzbvPjtK0gch0xoW-dmdKrTzyw-EAeT-B4bGKPdlx9F_FUEGjCbCB5rYQ_ZdshHfqNvqf6hu5XyA_NjEpFQh7yT_4Gj5FmdHWWKiVLQgk6fK7wM70nTZ_czoNG2eCQ53w/w455-h302/rooster.jpg" width="455" /></a></div><br /><p><br style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-decoration-color: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;" /><br style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-decoration-color: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;" /><span face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: #222222; display: inline; float: none; font-size: small; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-decoration-color: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;">Once upon a time, a farmer tended to his twenty-five young hens and one aging cock. Recognizing the old cock's declining efficiency, the farmer made a decision to introduce a young replacement from the market.</span><br style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-decoration-color: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;" /><br style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-decoration-color: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;" /><span face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: #222222; display: inline; float: none; font-size: small; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-decoration-color: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;">The old cock, extending a welcoming gesture, said, "Join me, and together we shall work towards enhancing productivity."</span><br style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-decoration-color: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;" /><br style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-decoration-color: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;" /><span face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: #222222; display: inline; float: none; font-size: small; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-decoration-color: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;">Perplexed, the young cock replied, "What do you mean? You're old and should retire."</span><br style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-decoration-color: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;" /><br style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-decoration-color: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;" /><span face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: #222222; display: inline; float: none; font-size: small; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-decoration-color: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;">Undeterred, the old cock explained, "Young one, with twenty-five hens here, can't I assist you with some?"</span><br style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-decoration-color: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;" /><br style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-decoration-color: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;" /><span face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: #222222; display: inline; float: none; font-size: small; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-decoration-color: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;">Refusing to share, the young cock asserted, "No! Every single hen will belong to me."</span><br style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-decoration-color: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;" /><br style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-decoration-color: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;" /><span face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: #222222; display: inline; float: none; font-size: small; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-decoration-color: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;">In response, the old cock proposed a competition, declaring, "In that case, I challenge you. If I win, I shall have one hen, but if I lose, you can claim them all."</span><br style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-decoration-color: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;" /><br style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-decoration-color: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;" /><span face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: #222222; display: inline; float: none; font-size: small; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-decoration-color: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;">Curious, the young cock asked, "Okay, what kind of competition?"</span><br style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-decoration-color: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;" /><br style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-decoration-color: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;" /><span face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: #222222; display: inline; float: none; font-size: small; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-decoration-color: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;">The old cock suggested a 50-meter run, from their current position to a distant tree. Acknowledging his age, he requested a 10-meter head start.</span><br style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-decoration-color: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;" /><br style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-decoration-color: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;" /><span face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: #222222; display: inline; float: none; font-size: small; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-decoration-color: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;">The young cock agreed, and they set the following morning as the time for their contest. Confidently, the young cock allowed the old cock to take the lead, planning to overtake him swiftly.</span><br style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-decoration-color: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;" /><br style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-decoration-color: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;" /><span face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: #222222; display: inline; float: none; font-size: small; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-decoration-color: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;">As the old cock reached the 10-meter mark, the young cock sprinted after him, determined to catch up. Surprisingly, within seconds, the young cock closed the gap, inching closer to the old cock.</span><br style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-decoration-color: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;" /><br style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-decoration-color: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;" /><span face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: #222222; display: inline; float: none; font-size: small; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-decoration-color: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;">Suddenly, a loud bang shattered the air. Tragically, the young cock was shot dead by the farmer, who angrily exclaimed, "Damn it! This is the fifth GAY rooster I've mistakenly bought this week!"</span><br style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-decoration-color: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;" /><br style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-decoration-color: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;" /><span face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: #222222; display: inline; float: none; font-size: small; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-decoration-color: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;">In this unexpected turn of events, the tale of a rivalry between the old and young cock met an unfortunate end due to a comical misunderstanding. The farmer's frustration with acquiring roosters of the same gender led to an untimely demise, leaving behind a lesson of miscommunication and the need for clarity in all matters.</span></p>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-131229601484432986.post-6659614522151185282023-05-22T20:53:00.003-07:002023-05-22T20:53:39.376-07:00 Bridging the Divide<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_5oy87q6lQ0o-qrfvBE3YRslepSaExmUt6NuyjauxQJTDlzU8d6ZAI222fco7X84d4sa-QFVytt2vMuSrQm1vwz_nnYJ76r4jb6nKtMKqxYdzfC1pu51gz_my_YjgB4AXKnVbMmPOSxp-K9qvWcvM0l1DeXuWtrrZ91FOaRrLEURE8dOfBBalka7Zyw/s500/bridge.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="318" data-original-width="500" height="291" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_5oy87q6lQ0o-qrfvBE3YRslepSaExmUt6NuyjauxQJTDlzU8d6ZAI222fco7X84d4sa-QFVytt2vMuSrQm1vwz_nnYJ76r4jb6nKtMKqxYdzfC1pu51gz_my_YjgB4AXKnVbMmPOSxp-K9qvWcvM0l1DeXuWtrrZ91FOaRrLEURE8dOfBBalka7Zyw/w457-h291/bridge.jpg" width="457" /></a></div><br /><p><br style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-decoration-color: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;" /><span style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: #222222; display: inline !important; float: none; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-decoration-color: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;">Once upon a time, in a peaceful village, there were two brothers named Ethan and Benjamin. They had grown up together, sharing laughter, dreams, and a deep bond. Their love for each other knew no bounds, and they lived harmoniously, side by side, in a quaint cottage nestled amidst rolling hills.</span><br style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-decoration-color: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;" /><br style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-decoration-color: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;" /><span style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: #222222; display: inline !important; float: none; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-decoration-color: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;">However, fate had a different plan in store for them. A series of unfortunate events led to a misunderstanding that began to poison their relationship. Miscommunication and hurtful words gradually drove a wedge between the once-inseparable brothers, casting a shadow over their once blissful coexistence.</span><br style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-decoration-color: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;" /><br style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-decoration-color: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;" /><span style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: #222222; display: inline !important; float: none; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-decoration-color: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;">In a fit of anger and despair, Ethan and Benjamin decided to part ways. They divided their family property in half and created a distinct boundary between them. To make their separation even more pronounced, Ethan decided to dig a deep trench along the newly formed property line, symbolizing the chasm that had emerged between their hearts.</span><br style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-decoration-color: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;" /><br style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-decoration-color: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;" /><span style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: #222222; display: inline !important; float: none; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-decoration-color: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;">Days turned into months, and months into years, as the estranged brothers lived in solitude on their respective sides of the divide. Their once vibrant home now echoed with silence, and the joy that had once filled their hearts was replaced by a profound emptiness.</span><br style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-decoration-color: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;" /><br style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-decoration-color: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;" /><span style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: #222222; display: inline !important; float: none; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-decoration-color: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;">The village, witnessing this heartbreaking turn of events, mourned the loss of the brothers' bond. The people remembered the joyous times when Ethan and Benjamin would sing together, filling the air with their harmonious melodies. They longed for the restoration of the brothers' relationship, wishing for the trench to be bridged and the wounds to heal.</span><br style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-decoration-color: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;" /><br style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-decoration-color: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;" /><span style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: #222222; display: inline !important; float: none; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-decoration-color: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;">One fateful day, as the autumn leaves painted the landscape with vibrant hues, a gentle old man named Samuel arrived in the village. Samuel was renowned for his wisdom and his ability to mend broken relationships. Word of his arrival soon reached the ears of Ethan and Benjamin, filling them with a flicker of hope.</span><br style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-decoration-color: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;" /><br style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-decoration-color: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;" /><span style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: #222222; display: inline !important; float: none; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-decoration-color: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;">Intrigued by the stories surrounding Samuel, Ethan and Benjamin separately sought his guidance. Samuel listened intently to their tales of sorrow, regret, and the trench that stood as a physical reminder of their fractured bond. With a knowing smile, he shared a profound insight.</span><br style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-decoration-color: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;" /><br style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-decoration-color: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;" /><span style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: #222222; display: inline !important; float: none; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-decoration-color: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;">"True happiness lies not in the division of property but in the unity of hearts," Samuel whispered softly. "The trench you've created is not merely a physical barrier but a representation of the emotional distance that separates you. It's time to lay aside your grievances, to bridge the divide that has taken hold of your lives."</span><br style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-decoration-color: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;" /><br style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-decoration-color: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;" /><span style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: #222222; display: inline !important; float: none; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-decoration-color: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;">Ethan and Benjamin, moved by Samuel's words, realized the gravity of their actions and the depth of their shared loss. With newfound determination, they set out to undo the damage they had caused. Together, they gathered tools and materials, and side by side, they began to build a bridge that would span the chasm between their properties.</span><br style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-decoration-color: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;" /><br style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-decoration-color: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;" /><span style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: #222222; display: inline !important; float: none; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-decoration-color: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;">Days turned into weeks, and the bridge took shape, becoming a symbol of their renewed commitment to reconciliation. As the final piece was put into place, Ethan and Benjamin stood at opposite ends of the bridge, their eyes locked with a mixture of trepidation and hope.</span><br style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-decoration-color: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;" /><br style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-decoration-color: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;" /><span style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: #222222; display: inline !important; float: none; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-decoration-color: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;">With a deep breath, Ethan took the first step, his heart pounding in his chest. Benjamin mirrored his brother's movement, and as they slowly approached each other, the weight of their shared history and love began to lift the burdens they had carried for so long.</span><br style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-decoration-color: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;" /><br style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-decoration-color: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;" /><span style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: #222222; display: inline !important; float: none; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-decoration-color: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;">In the middle of the bridge, surrounded by the beauty of nature, the brothers embraced, tears streaming down their faces, washing away the bitterness of the past. They realized that the property they had divided was insignificant compared to the love they shared as brothers.</span><br style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-decoration-color: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;" /><br style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-decoration-color: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;" /><span style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: #222222; display: inline !important; float: none; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-decoration-color: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;">Word quickly spread through the village, and the people rejoiced at the sight of Ethan and Benjamin, united once more. The trench that had once symbolized their separation now stood as a reminder of the power</span></p>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-131229601484432986.post-64796758934261517222023-05-22T05:41:00.002-07:002023-05-22T05:41:30.407-07:00 The King's Generous Servant and the True Gift<p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgol_32onHv9IXDM-xVjuxaZtLwiykYH74wAsUgsRwLUYffMFH1Aiqf62O3mb0Hd2ql24cR4Sm3zNN4ddvaGPqNwUGUmZHSuAH6--sNCS9dBvQcry4DyxFhwnc6djuwB6wq15glieP_Lk0OXzqmXv_AE0aHBxi0UEnbsBDZFpIgAs-2DlPTEugRSqvsiw/s400/k1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="400" data-original-width="311" height="555" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgol_32onHv9IXDM-xVjuxaZtLwiykYH74wAsUgsRwLUYffMFH1Aiqf62O3mb0Hd2ql24cR4Sm3zNN4ddvaGPqNwUGUmZHSuAH6--sNCS9dBvQcry4DyxFhwnc6djuwB6wq15glieP_Lk0OXzqmXv_AE0aHBxi0UEnbsBDZFpIgAs-2DlPTEugRSqvsiw/w432-h555/k1.jpg" width="432" /></a></div><br /><br /><p></p><br /><p>Once upon a time, there was a mighty king who had conquered vast territories through numerous wars. He owed his victories to his four loyal ministers who fought valiantly by his side. One day, the king decided to celebrate his triumphs by hosting a grand feast, inviting esteemed guests from far and wide. During this momentous occasion, the king chose to honor his faithful ministers for their unwavering loyalty and bravery.</p><p><br /><br />Gathering his ministers before the gathered guests, the king proclaimed, "You four have played a crucial role in our victories. As a token of my gratitude, I offer to grant each of you a heartfelt desire. Whatever your hearts desire, I shall fulfill it." The ministers, one by one, stepped forward and expressed their wishes.</p><p><br /><br />The first minister, hailing from a humble background, spoke earnestly to the king, "Your Majesty, I come from a poor family that has suffered from hunger and deprivation. I wish for wealth and prosperity." The king, moved by the minister's plea, commanded his treasury servant to bestow a generous sum upon him, ensuring his newfound affluence.</p><p><br /><br />The second minister approached the king, sharing his longing for a grand residence akin to the royal palace. Deeply understanding the minister's aspirations, the king directed his servants to construct a magnificent palace befitting his faithful servant.</p><p><br /><br />Next, the third minister expressed his desire for a well-built road leading to his village. Although he possessed wealth and a comfortable home, the lack of a proper pathway hindered his daily journey. Responding empathetically, the king ordered the construction of a splendid royal road, ensuring a smooth passage for his devoted minister.</p><p><br /><br />Finally, the turn came for the fourth minister. Overwhelmed by emotions, tears streamed down his face as he struggled to voice his request. The king, sensing the depth of his servant's sentiment, urged him to speak without hesitation. With a heavy heart, the minister sobbed, "Your Majesty, I do not seek riches, lavish abodes, or splendid paths. All I wish for is your gracious presence in my humble home, to spend a few days with me and my family." Touched by the sincerity of his request, the king assured him, "It shall be done. I am honored to accept your invitation and live amongst you and your loved ones."</p><p><br /><br />As the king made preparations to visit the minister's home, he discovered that his loyal servant was indeed impoverished, lacking both adequate shelter and wealth. Determined to rectify this disparity, the king commanded the construction of a grand house, rivaling his own palace, ensuring a comfortable stay. Additionally, he arranged for a substantial sum of money to accompany him, ensuring the minister's needs were met. A royal path was also constructed, enabling the king's seamless journey to the minister's village. In the end, the generous servant received the same blessings bestowed upon his fellow ministers.</p><p><br /><br />The moral of this story reminds us to seek the giver rather than merely focusing on the gift. True fulfillment lies in establishing a connection with the divine, transcending material desires. When we invite God into our lives, all other blessings follow naturally, showering us with abundance and contentment.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1cd_eR2e1XntGSn3hnZdvJoiOSm34brMgNhjt9qXYrIPvdEYc1wmmXVdTw2VoD15_3Lfp1BZW4O7Fhf-apNGoR1f4XOuKKStmm20IPJOMB6dKHBAj1kjLV4KWvggqMdwrk4mhYowMFO9Qo8EFolH_YzEhYJWRF4BwtFgkWeSpe-xxwXJuXdfqIO1qzw/s400/k1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="400" data-original-width="311" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1cd_eR2e1XntGSn3hnZdvJoiOSm34brMgNhjt9qXYrIPvdEYc1wmmXVdTw2VoD15_3Lfp1BZW4O7Fhf-apNGoR1f4XOuKKStmm20IPJOMB6dKHBAj1kjLV4KWvggqMdwrk4mhYowMFO9Qo8EFolH_YzEhYJWRF4BwtFgkWeSpe-xxwXJuXdfqIO1qzw/s320/k1.jpg" width="249" /></a></div><br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-131229601484432986.post-34733931318904928822023-05-22T05:32:00.000-07:002023-05-22T05:32:15.765-07:00The Miraculous Escape: A Story of Courage and Transformation<p><span style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: #222222; display: inline !important; float: none; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-decoration-color: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;"></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhP4AJk_upSBsfhCBhy2W-AcL1AS-3XLZvdWTGL4lf6AXoMPBxQL1I7jcJXVCUbppvORf-CsjsWKaexi3RBPaaatroBBJhVqYoiKlaxYIl2bbQpqlhSbJl4Yhjdc8-wxHA-pkygXcdLtmlySbDOKJtBsCrb7TAOF5NrHlNvu058zcxaGfZ3WbHPU_z0QQ/s460/s.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="276" data-original-width="460" height="295" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhP4AJk_upSBsfhCBhy2W-AcL1AS-3XLZvdWTGL4lf6AXoMPBxQL1I7jcJXVCUbppvORf-CsjsWKaexi3RBPaaatroBBJhVqYoiKlaxYIl2bbQpqlhSbJl4Yhjdc8-wxHA-pkygXcdLtmlySbDOKJtBsCrb7TAOF5NrHlNvu058zcxaGfZ3WbHPU_z0QQ/w492-h295/s.jpg" width="492" /></a></div><br /> <p></p><p><span style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: #222222; display: inline !important; float: none; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-decoration-color: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;">In this inspiring tale recounted by Anthony Robbins, we learn about the extraordinary journey of Stanislavsky Lech, a survivor of the Krakow Death Camp. As he witnessed the Nazis mercilessly murder his family after being herded into Krakow, Stanislavsky found himself trapped in a world of grief, hunger, and despair.</span><br style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-decoration-color: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;" /><br style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-decoration-color: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;" /><span style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: #222222; display: inline !important; float: none; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-decoration-color: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;"> </span></p><p><span style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: #222222; display: inline !important; float: none; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-decoration-color: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;">However, he decided to change his perspective and pose a different question: "How can we escape from such a place?" Although the initial response remained bleak—"There is no escape"—Stanislavsky persisted, seeking alternative ways to phrase his inquiry: "How can I do it?"</span></p><p><span style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: #222222; display: inline !important; float: none; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-decoration-color: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;"> </span><br style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-decoration-color: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;" /><br style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-decoration-color: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;" /><span style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: #222222; display: inline !important; float: none; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-decoration-color: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;">Fate intervened when he detected the pungent odor of decaying flesh near his work area. Observing the bodies of recently gassed victims being loaded onto a truck, Stanislavsky altered his question once more: "How can I use this to help me escape?" Instead of questioning why such atrocities were allowed, he focused on leveraging the situation to his advantage.</span></p><p><span style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: #222222; display: inline !important; float: none; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-decoration-color: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;"> </span><br style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-decoration-color: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;" /><br style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-decoration-color: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;" /><span style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: #222222; display: inline !important; float: none; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-decoration-color: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;">Upon returning from work the following evening, he found the truck present once again. Seizing a critical opportunity, he discreetly shed his clothes and joined the lifeless bodies, feigning death. Immersed in the chilling embrace of corpses, he endured the suffocating stench, patiently waiting as the vehicle transported them to an open grave. Only when silence prevailed, indicating their departure, did he dare to venture out.</span></p><p><span style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: #222222; display: inline !important; float: none; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-decoration-color: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;"> </span><br style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-decoration-color: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;" /><br style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-decoration-color: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;" /><span style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: #222222; display: inline !important; float: none; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-decoration-color: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;">To his astonishment, they were gone. In a daring act, naked and vulnerable, Stanislavsky embarked on a harrowing 25-mile sprint to freedom that fateful night.</span></p><p><span style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: #222222; display: inline !important; float: none; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-decoration-color: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;"> </span><br style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-decoration-color: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;" /><br style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-decoration-color: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;" /><span style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: #222222; display: inline !important; float: none; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-decoration-color: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;">This extraordinary escape was made possible because Stanislavsky changed his question, tapping into his intuition or higher self. By asking a different inquiry, he received an answer that guided him towards liberation. This story reminds us of the power of our own perspective and the importance of knowing where we seek assistance in overcoming challenges.</span></p><p><span style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: #222222; display: inline !important; float: none; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-decoration-color: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;"> </span><br style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-decoration-color: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;" /><br style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-decoration-color: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;" /><span style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: #222222; display: inline !important; float: none; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-decoration-color: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;">Stanislavsky Lech's resilience and unwavering determination serve as a testament to the indomitable human spirit. His remarkable escape from the clutches of Krakow Death Camp inspires us to reframe our questions, discover our inner strength, and triumph over adversity.</span></p>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-131229601484432986.post-32834470970423906562023-05-19T22:39:00.004-07:002023-06-13T05:50:12.787-07:00A Legacy of Compassion: The Unseen Impact<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7Gpf0EEN4Yl3JRLISi7jpi29xlyjTVaG8yBGiXaaOngstQRw55OtgmXjlgqqUYO24QXbJsMgRmckfNRuAoXXnY-Y3VSytnGUrlNXsldzFIJztwdfuHT_QIpMeoYJTIqikpaFmKGEcsBsHOEgDz7jWl1oiSwxeZIStDYd3J5wBt3bomPGeJ2Uj93FzMg/s1600/funeral.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1058" data-original-width="1600" height="279" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7Gpf0EEN4Yl3JRLISi7jpi29xlyjTVaG8yBGiXaaOngstQRw55OtgmXjlgqqUYO24QXbJsMgRmckfNRuAoXXnY-Y3VSytnGUrlNXsldzFIJztwdfuHT_QIpMeoYJTIqikpaFmKGEcsBsHOEgDz7jWl1oiSwxeZIStDYd3J5wBt3bomPGeJ2Uj93FzMg/w421-h279/funeral.jpg" width="421" /></a></div><br /> In the somber silence of the room, I sat before the lifeless body of my father. The weight of grief pressed upon my heart, mingling with memories of a man who had touched so many lives. It was during this solemn moment that an old lady, wrinkled with age and carrying the weight of her own stories, approached me.<br /><br /> <p></p><p>With trembling hands, she shared a tale that would forever change the way I saw my father. She spoke of a winter evening, when despair had enveloped her home. There was nothing to eat, and the lack of money made the situation seem even more hopeless. In her deepest moments of despair, she had prepared what she thought would be her final meal, ready to succumb to the darkness that had consumed her soul.</p><p><br /></p><p><br />But on that very evening, a glimmer of hope arrived unexpectedly, in the form of my father's truck. It was Christmas day, and he appeared with an abundance of food items and groceries, enough to sustain her and her child for several months. She spoke with a quiver in her voice, recalling how her tears mingled with gratitude as she accepted the gifts, realizing that there was still goodness left in the world.</p><p><br /><br />As the harsh winter gave way to a season of rebirth, the old lady found herself blessed with a newfound opportunity. Through unwavering determination, she secured a job that not only sustained her family but also allowed her child to continue his education. The path that my father had paved for her had led her to a life of dignity and hope.</p><p><br /><br />In the presence of the gathered mourners, she bravely shared her story. Her words pierced through the veil of sorrow, touching the hearts of all who listened. Tears flowed freely down the faces of those around me as they witnessed the immense impact my father had made, not just on our lives, but on the lives of others.</p><p><br /><br />The room resonated with a mixture of emotions—grief, but also a profound gratitude for a man who had selflessly reached out to those in need. The old lady's story became a testament to the depth of my father's kindness, his capacity to bring light to the darkest corners of despair.</p><p><br /><br />In that moment, surrounded by tears and shared memories, a newfound understanding settled within me. My father's legacy was not just confined to our familial bonds; it extended far beyond, leaving an indelible mark on the lives of strangers. It was a reminder that even the simplest acts of compassion can sow seeds of hope that flourish long after we are gone.</p><p><br /><br />As the old lady's voice faded and the room fell into a hushed stillness, I held onto that realization, cherishing the knowledge that my father's spirit would continue to inspire and touch lives, even in his absence. And though the pain of loss remained, it was softened by the comfort of knowing that his memory would forever be entwined with stories of love, generosity, and the power of a single act of kindness.</p>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-131229601484432986.post-26244640410331904902023-05-19T21:56:00.002-07:002023-06-13T05:50:51.938-07:00Strangers' Haven: A Journey of Unforeseen Blessings<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgL9Y1Iat0Rjfc3N1erb5KQJ1_KSaRRXrFpLVFNGkbMvV3-l_VqV4ebnz-apWUkVLq_CdLqyTNbZZdrOTPpS_nDDnnq1q5J-Dc6P0nHNUF-oaPjU1uqt4AcRodTVB3RPq6CO0FqPFV9BGEuxvNovsDbc73UniMiI4VKoefCNSqLxrn3elzNszbQDn3dsQ/s850/bus.webp" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="567" data-original-width="850" height="310" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgL9Y1Iat0Rjfc3N1erb5KQJ1_KSaRRXrFpLVFNGkbMvV3-l_VqV4ebnz-apWUkVLq_CdLqyTNbZZdrOTPpS_nDDnnq1q5J-Dc6P0nHNUF-oaPjU1uqt4AcRodTVB3RPq6CO0FqPFV9BGEuxvNovsDbc73UniMiI4VKoefCNSqLxrn3elzNszbQDn3dsQ/w467-h310/bus.webp" width="467" /></a></div><p></p><p>Once upon a time, in a land far away, I found myself in a completely unfamiliar country. With wide eyes and a heart full of curiosity, I stepped onto the bustling streets of this new land, ready to embark on an adventure like no other.<br /></p><p> </p><p>As I strolled through the city, taking in the sights and sounds, I couldn't help but feel a tinge of excitement and apprehension. Everything around me was so different, from the language spoken to the customs observed. The vibrant atmosphere engulfed me as I continued my walk, eager to explore the hidden gems this foreign land had to offer. <br /></p><p></p><p><br /><br />Lost in my thoughts, I meandered away from the city center and found myself in the countryside. The narrow roads led me to a breathtaking scene: a group of chained elephants, their majestic presence contrasting with the humble carts they pulled. The carts were laden with colorful bushes, creating a mesmerizing display. <br /></p><p></p><p><br /><br />As I stood there, marveling at the beauty before me, I caught sight of some native people standing nearby. Their eyes lit up as they noticed me, mistaking me for a wealthy traveler. Their voices filled with hope, they approached me, eager to secure employment. They saw in me an opportunity to improve their lives, a chance for a better future. <br /></p><p><br /><br />Politely declining their offers, I continued my journey, grateful for the encounter but unsure of what lay ahead. The roads led me to a bus stop, and with a weary sigh, I settled on a bench, longing for a moment of respite. As I sat there, lost in my own thoughts, a tea shop caught my attention. <br /></p><p></p><p><br /><br />The aroma of freshly brewed tea wafted through the air, inviting me in. I stepped inside, hoping to wash my hands and quench my thirst. To my surprise, I found familiar faces amidst the crowd. A group of people from my own village, who had migrated to this foreign land before me, sat in a corner, engaged in animated conversation. <br /></p><p></p><p></p><p></p><p><br /><br />Excited to see them, I rushed over and greeted them warmly. They smiled back, thrilled by the unexpected reunion. However, their smiles quickly faded as they explained their situation. They had entered into an agreement with their landlord, which restricted them from accommodating any more people without prior permission. <br /></p><p></p><p></p><p><br /><br />Disheartened but understanding, I bid them farewell and resumed my quest for a place to stay. Moments later, as I sat on the bus contemplating my next move, a woman with a child caught my attention. She smiled warmly, her eyes radiating kindness.</p><p></p><p></p><p></p><p><br />Taking a leap of faith, she approached me and, with broken English, asked me to accompany them to their destination. They were heading towards the next bus stop and invited me to stay with them. Overwhelmed with gratitude, I accepted their invitation, tears welling up in my eyes.</p><p></p><p><br />It was in that moment, surrounded by strangers who had become my saviors, that I felt a profound sense of belonging. The kindness and hospitality of these strangers, who had crossed my path in this foreign land, touched my heart. I silently thanked God for orchestrating this divine encounter, providing me with the support and comfort I so desperately needed.</p><p><br />As the bus moved forward, carrying us to our destination, I couldn't help but marvel at the unpredictable nature of life. In the midst of unfamiliarity and uncertainty, strangers had become my companions, transforming this foreign land into a place I could call home.</p>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-131229601484432986.post-13050532184040844492022-04-20T23:04:00.002-07:002023-06-13T05:44:42.044-07:00Land of the Dying and the Land of Living<span style="font-size: medium;"></span><span style="font-size: medium;"><span>Professional golfer Paul Azinger was diagnosed with
cancer at age 33.
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He had just won a PGA championship and had ten tournament victories to
his credit.
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He wrote, <i>"A genuine feeling of fear came over me. I could die from
cancer. Then another reality hit me even harder. I'm going to die
eventually anyway, whether from cancer or something else. It's just a
question of when.
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Everything I had accomplished in golf became meaningless to me. All I
wanted to do was live." </i>
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Then he remembered something that Larry Moody, who teaches a Bible study
on the tour, had said to him.<br clear="none" />
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<i>"Zinger, we're not in the land of the living going to the land of the
dying. We're in the land of the dying trying to get to the land of the
living." </i>
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Golfer Paul Azinger recovered from chemotherapy and returned to the PGA
tour.
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He's done pretty well.
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But that bout with cancer deepened his perspective. He wrote, <i>"I've
made a lot of money since I've been on the tour, and I've won a lot of
tournaments, but that happiness is always temporary.
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The only way you will ever have true contentment is in a personal
relationship with Jesus Christ.
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I'm not saying that nothing ever bothers me and I don't have problems,
but I feel like I've found the answer to the six-foot hole."</i>
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Paul's message was a great reminder for us that our life here on earth
is just a dress rehearsal for eternity.
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We should always aim to please God and let Him be the center of our
lives.
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Today, if you feel overwhelmed, stressed, and tired take a short break.
Breathe, utter a prayer, and meditate your memory verse.
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Life can be much easier if we marinate our minds with scriptures
throughout the day.
</span></span></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-131229601484432986.post-91801118841925794962022-01-05T23:06:00.006-08:002022-01-05T23:06:49.914-08:00How The Tortoise Got The Cracks On His Shell<p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Once upon a time in the animal kingdom, there was a famine. The animals in the kingdom all starved and looked very lean except the birds.</span></p><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><br /></p><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">When the Tortoise noticed this, he decided to find out from the birds where they got their food.</span></p><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><br /></p><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">The birds refused, citing the Tortoise's cunning as a reason why they wouldn’t disclose it.</span></p><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><br /></p><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">The Tortoise continued to plead and promised not to play any tricks. The birds then agreed to tell him.</span></p><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><br /></p><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">They told him of a feast held high up in the heavens for anyone who could make it up there.</span></p><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><br /></p><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">The Tortoise thought about it and realized that it would be impossible for him to get to the heavens because he had no wings. However, an idea struck him; he said, “if only each of you would lend me a feather to attach to my body which would serve as a wing.”</span></p><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><br /></p><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">The birds agreed and gave him a feather to attach to his body to form wings.</span></p><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><br /></p><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Before they left, the birds asked him to take a ceremonial name, one which he would be addressed by when he got to the heavens.</span></p><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><br /></p><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">After thinking about it, the Tortoise said he should be called “Everyone of you," and so they left for the feast.</span></p><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><br /></p><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">When they arrived, they were welcomed by the host of heaven and led to the table where a banquet was prepared. “This food is for every one of you,” said the host before leaving.</span></p><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><br /></p><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">At that point, the Tortoise stepped forward and reminded them that his ceremonial name was “Everyone of you" and, as such, the food belonged to him alone.</span></p><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><br /></p><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">He then went ahead to eat the entire food. When he was done, his smooth shell shone brightly.</span></p><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><br /></p><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">The birds were very angry with him and they all agreed to take back their feathers, leaving him with no wings.</span></p><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><br /></p><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">The Tortoise, however, pleaded with one of the birds to take a message home for him. “Tell my wife to bring out the softest materials, the beds and the pillows in my house, and put them out under the heavens, so that I can land safely when I jump down.”</span></p><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><br /></p><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">The bird agreed to take the message, but when he got to the house of the Tortoise, he changed the message. “Your husband has instructed that you bring out the strong and hard materials in the house out in the open,” he said.</span></p><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><br /></p><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">When the Tortoise saw his wife bringing out materials, he became assured that he would be able to land safely.</span></p><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><br /></p><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">When she had finished, the Tortoise leaped from the heavens and crashed into the hard materials. His smooth shell shattered into several pieces.</span></p><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><br /></p><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">It took the best healer in the land to put his shell together. Thus, until this day, the Tortoise has a broken shell as a reminder of what his greed cost him.</span></p>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-131229601484432986.post-85127892513645018792022-01-05T22:18:00.001-08:002022-01-05T22:18:25.455-08:00Who is the Leader<p> </p><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><em style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Once upon a time, members of the human body council met in order to choose a leader. Each member introduced himself to explain the role he played in the entire human body.</span></em></p><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><br /></p><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">The Hand also announced, ‘ I want to be the leader because it is I who helps the man. If provoked, I can defend the human body by administering shots. The head should be strong. If someone is sick, I make him eat. If you need to cut something, you use me.</span></p><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"> </span></p><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">The members said to the Hand, ‘You cannot be our leader because you slap people, you hit people and you touch everything. Therefore, we do not give you the power.’</span></p><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><br /></p><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">The Eyes spoke up, asking for power. He said, ‘We make it possible for people to move around, read, and see the light of day.’</span></p><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><br /></p><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">The members replied to the Eyes, ‘Look, you are hungry, you are thieves, you look at the neighbor's wife, the diamond in a package, and other people’s money. You cannot be a leader.’ Other members refused.</span></p><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><br /></p><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">The Foot in turn told the members, ‘I want to be the leader because I move people from one place to another.’</span></p><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">The members said to the Foot, ‘Foot, you perform karate, you kick people, you are always hidden in the shoe. You do not deserve to be our leader.’</span></p><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><br /></p><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">The Knee said, ‘I want to be the leader because, if someone wants to pray, he kneels.’</span></p><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><br /></p><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">The members said to the Knee, ‘You are hidden under people’s clothing. You cannot be our leader.’</span></p><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><br /></p><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">The Mouth said, ‘I want to be the leader because, when I go to the Senate, I will speak for you.’</span></p><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><br /></p><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">The members said to the Mouth, ‘You Mouth are provocative. You do not have self-control. You insult people, you accuse people falsely. You cannot be our leader.’</span></p><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><br /></p><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">There remained only one member, and that was the Anus. He told members that he also wanted to be chief.</span></p><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">The members became very angry and told the Anus that, even if the power was given to every other member, they could not give it to the Anus. </span></p><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><br /></p><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Anus said, ‘You will all know that I am the head. I will go home and you shall seek me.’ The Anus went home and closed his door.</span></p><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><br /></p><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">The other members stayed to the party. The Hand took the food and gave it to the Mouth. The very happy Mouth ate joyfully. She sent it to the Stomach and the Stomach was happy to receive the food. The man walked around without any problem. The Feet moved smoothly.</span></p><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><br /></p><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">The first day passed, the man was well. On the second day, things still went well, as well as the third day. However, on the fourth day, oh oh oh, the man's belly was bloated. His eyes were puffy, his hands and feet were shaking. The man was unable to move.</span></p><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><br /></p><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">On the fifth day, the members decided to seek the Anus at his house. When they arrived at Mr. Anus’ house, they said to him, ‘Anus, it is you who should be our leader, we came to hand power over to you.’ Therefore, Anus accepted the offer.</span></p><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><br /></p><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">He pressed the first button, the man let out some gas. The man begins to move his hands and feet and they asked the man, how are you now? The man replied, ‘I feel better.’ Mr. Anus pressed the second button, and the man was able to empty his bowel and felt comfortable.</span></p><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"> </span></p><h4 style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"> Moral:</span></h4><p style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;"><span data-preserver-spaces="true" style="background: transparent; color: #0e101a; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">Dear friends, really, all members of the body are very important and each member plays an important role in the life of a person. The foot cannot say to the eye, ‘You are not important.’ The hand cannot say to the head, ‘That does not matter.’ All members perform useful functions.</span></p>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-131229601484432986.post-9473704485225967402022-01-03T00:38:00.004-08:002023-06-13T05:51:24.119-07:00Acers of Diamond<p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhF_DnrYvVAPRjEeBFv7dKpVPWjHdV1kChJ29OTb7x_1nSjzWL5xcLTgMos1YK6jtYiRmLNkz4hvxA37iCgZhwNfAJkK0u9NAjIVEZdq4c4YuBoBVnLlKJckAWVYUhRvNli3btxopdMjGWTd-mGOtjRNI1c9kH_MBauCCo3rdCOdzPSw5zSJB-Rvw1__w/s1024/joyful.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="577" data-original-width="1024" height="217" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhF_DnrYvVAPRjEeBFv7dKpVPWjHdV1kChJ29OTb7x_1nSjzWL5xcLTgMos1YK6jtYiRmLNkz4hvxA37iCgZhwNfAJkK0u9NAjIVEZdq4c4YuBoBVnLlKJckAWVYUhRvNli3btxopdMjGWTd-mGOtjRNI1c9kH_MBauCCo3rdCOdzPSw5zSJB-Rvw1__w/w384-h217/joyful.jpg" width="384" /></a></div><br /><p></p><div style="line-height: 200%; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span style="font-size: medium;">When
going down the Tigris and Euphrates rivers many years ago with a
party of English travelers I found myself under the direction of an
old Arab guide whom we hired up at Bagdad, and I have often thought
how that guide resembled our barbers in certain mental
characteristics. He thought that it was not only his duty to guide us
down those rivers, and do what he was paid for doing, but also to
entertain us with stories curious and weird, ancient and modern,
strange and familiar. Many of them I have forgotten, and I am glad I
have, but there is one I shall never forget.</span></div>
<div style="line-height: 200%; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<br />
</div>
<div style="line-height: 200%; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<br />
</div>
<div style="line-height: 200%; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span style="font-size: medium;">The
old guide was leading my camel by its halter along the banks of those
ancient rivers, and he told me story after story until I grew weary
of his story telling and ceased to listen. I have never been
irritated with that guide when he lost his temper as I ceased
listening. But I remember that he took off his Turkish cap and swung
it in a circle to get my attention. I could see it through the corner
of my eye, but I determined not to look straight at him for fear he
would tell another story. But although I am not a woman, I did
finally look, and as soon as I did he went right into another story.
Said he, ``I will tell you a story now which I reserve for my
particular friends.'' When he emphasized the words ``particular
friends,'' I listened, and I have ever been glad I did. </span></div><div style="line-height: 200%; margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-size: medium;"> </span></div><div style="line-height: 200%; margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-size: medium;">I really feel
devoutly thankful, that there are 1,674 young men who have been
carried through college by this lecture who are also glad that I did
listen. The old guide told me that there once lived not far from the
River Indus an ancient Persian by the name of Ali Hafed. He said that
Ali Hafed owned a very large farm, that he had orchards, grain
fields, and gardens; that he had money at interest, and was a wealthy
and contented man. He was contented because he was wealthy, and
wealthy because he was contented. </span></div><div style="line-height: 200%; margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-size: medium;"> </span></div><div style="line-height: 200%; margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-size: medium;">One day there visited that old
Persian farmer one of these ancient Buddhist priests, one of the wise
men of the East. He sat down by the fire and told the old farmer how
this world of ours was made. He said that this world was once a mere
bank of fog, and that the Almighty thrust His finger into this bank
of fog, and began slowly to move His finger around, increasing the
speed until at last He whirled this bank of fog into a solid ball of
fire. Then it went rolling through the universe, burning its way
through other banks of fog, and condensed the moisture without, until
it fell in floods of rain upon its hot surface, and cooled the
outward crust. Then the internal fires bursting outward through the
crust threw up the mountains and hills, the valleys, the plains and
prairies of this wonderful world of ours. If this internal molten
mass came bursting out and cooled very quickly it became granite;
less quickly copper, less quickly silver, less quickly gold, and,
after gold, and diamonds were made.</span></div>
<div style="line-height: 200%; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<br />
</div>
<div style="line-height: 200%; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<br />
</div>
<div style="line-height: 200%; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span style="font-size: medium;">Said
the old priest, ``A diamond is a congealed drop of sunlight.'' Now
that is literally scientifically true, that a diamond is an actual
deposit of carbon from the sun. The old priest told Ali Hafed that if
he had one diamond the size of his thumb he could purchase the
county, and if he had a mine of diamonds he could place his children
upon thrones through the influence of their great wealth.</span></div>
<div style="line-height: 200%; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<br />
</div>
<div style="line-height: 200%; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<br />
</div>
<div style="line-height: 200%; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span style="font-size: medium;">Ali
Hafed heard all about diamonds, how much they were worth, and went to
his bed that night a poor man. He had not lost anything, but he was
poor because he was discontented, and
discontented because he feared he was poor. He said, ``I want a mine
of diamonds,'' and he lay awake all night.</span></div>
<div style="line-height: 200%; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<br />
</div>
<div style="line-height: 200%; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<br />
</div>
<div style="line-height: 200%; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span style="font-size: medium;">Early
in the morning he sought out the priest. I know by experience that a
priest is very cross when awakened early in the morning, and when he
shook that old priest out of his dreams,
Ali Hafed said to him:</span></div>
<div style="line-height: 200%; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<br />
</div>
<div style="line-height: 200%; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span style="font-size: medium;">``Will
you tell me where I can find diamonds?''</span></div>
<div style="line-height: 200%; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<br />
</div>
<div style="line-height: 200%; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span style="font-size: medium;">``Diamonds!
What do you want with diamonds?'' ``Why, I wish to be immensely
rich.'' ``Well, then, go along and find them. That is all you have to
do; go and find them, and then you
have them.'' ``But I don't know where to go.'' ``Well, if you will
find a river that runs through white sands, between high mountains,
in those white sands you will always find diamonds.'' ``I don't
believe there is any such river.'' ``Oh yes, there are plenty of
them. All you have to do is to go and find them, and then you have
them.'' Said Ali Hafed, ``I will go.'' </span></div><div style="line-height: 200%; margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-size: medium;"> </span></div><div style="line-height: 200%; margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-size: medium;">So he sold his farm, collected
his money, left his family in charge of a neighbor, and away he went
in search of diamonds. He began his search, very properly to my mind,
at the Mountains of the Moon. Afterward he came around into
Palestine, then wandered on into Europe, and at last when his money
was all spent and he was in rags, wretchedness, and poverty, he stood
on the shore of that bay at Barcelona, in Spain, when a great tidal
wave came rolling in between the pillars of Hercules, and the poor,
afflicted, suffering, dying man could not resist the awful temptation
to cast himself into that incoming tide, and he sank beneath its
foaming crest, never to rise in this life again.</span></div>
<div style="line-height: 200%; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<br />
</div>
<div style="line-height: 200%; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<br />
</div>
<div style="line-height: 200%; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span style="font-size: medium;">When
that old guide had told me that awfully sad story he stopped the
camel I was riding on and went back to fix the baggage that was
coming off another camel, and I had an opportunity to muse over his
story while he was gone. I remember saying to myself, ``Why did he
reserve that story for his `particular friends'?'' There seemed to be
no beginning, no middle, no end, nothing to it. That was the first
story I had ever heard told in my life, and would be the first one I
ever read, in which the hero was killed in the first chapter. I had
but one chapter of that story, and the hero was dead.</span></div>
<div style="line-height: 200%; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<br />
</div>
<div style="line-height: 200%; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<br />
</div>
<div style="line-height: 200%; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span style="font-size: medium;">When
the guide came back and took up the halter of my camel, he went right
ahead with the story, into the second chapter, just as though there
had been no break. The man who purchased Ali Hafed's farm one day led
his camel into the garden to drink, and as that camel put its nose
into the shallow water of that garden brook, Ali Hafed's successor
noticed a curious flash of light from the white sands of the stream.
He pulled out a black stone having an eye of light reflecting all the
hues of the rainbow. He took the pebble into the house and put it on
the mantel that covers the central fires, and forgot all about it.</span></div>
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</div>
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<br />
</div>
<div style="line-height: 200%; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span style="font-size: medium;">A
few days later this same old priest came in to visit Ali Hafed's
successor, and the moment he opened that drawing room door he saw
that flash of light on the mantel, and he rushed up to it, and
shouted: ``Here is a diamond! Has Ali Hafed returned?'' ``Oh no, Ali
Hafed has not returned, and that is not a diamond. That is nothing
but a stone we found right out here in our own garden.'' ``But,''
said the priest, ``I tell you I know a diamond when I see it. I know
positively that is a diamond.''</span></div>
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<br />
</div>
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<br />
</div>
<div style="line-height: 200%; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span style="font-size: medium;">Then
together they rushed out into that old garden and stirred up the
white sands with their fingers, and lo! There came up other more
beautiful and valuable gems than the first. ``Thus,'' said the guide
to me, and, friends, it is historically true, ``was discovered the
diamond mine of Golconda, the most magnificent diamond mine in all
the history of mankind, excelling the Kimberly itself. The Kohinoor,
and the Orloff of the crown jewels of England and Russia, the largest
on earth, came from that mine.''</span></div>
<div style="line-height: 200%; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<br />
</div>
<div style="line-height: 200%; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<br />
</div>
<div style="line-height: 200%; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span style="font-size: medium;">When
that old Arab guide told me the second chapter of his story, he then
took off his Turkish cap and swung it around in the air again to get
my attention to the moral. Those Arab guides have morals to their
stories, although they are not always moral. As he swung his hat, he
said to me, ``Had Ali Hafed remained at home and dug in his own
cellar, or underneath his own wheat fields, or in his own garden,
instead of wretchedness, starvation, and death by suicide in a
strange land, he would have had `acres of diamonds.' For every acre
of that old farm, yes, every shovelful, afterward revealed gems which
since have decorated the crowns of monarchs.''</span></div>
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<br />
</div>
<div style="line-height: 200%; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<br />
</div>
<div style="line-height: 200%; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span style="font-size: medium;">When
he had added the moral to his story I saw why he reserved it for
``his particular friends.'' But I did not tell him I could see it. It
was that mean old Arab's way of going around a thing like a lawyer,
to say indirectly what he did not dare say directly, that ``in his
private opinion there was a certain young man then traveling down the
Tigris River that might better be at home in America.'' I did not
tell him I could see that, but I told him his story reminded me of
one, and I told it to him quick, and I think I will tell it to you.</span></div>
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<div style="line-height: 200%; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span style="font-size: medium;">I
told him of a man out in California in 1847 who owned a ranch. He
heard they had discovered gold in southern California, and so with a
passion for gold he sold his ranch to Colonel Sutter, and away he
went, never to come back. Colonel Sutter put a mill upon a stream
that ran through that ranch, and one day his little girl brought some
wet sand from the raceway into their home and sifted it through her
fingers before the fire, and in that falling sand a visitor saw the
first shining scales of real gold that were ever discovered in
California. The man who had owned that ranch wanted gold, and he
could have secured it for the mere taking. Indeed, thirty-eight
millions of dollars has been taken out of a very few acres since
then. </span></div><div style="line-height: 200%; margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-size: medium;"> </span></div><div style="line-height: 200%; margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-size: medium;">About eight years ago I delivered this lecture in a city that
stands on that farm, and they told me that a one-third owner for
years and years had been getting one hundred and twenty dollars in
gold every fifteen minutes, sleeping or waking, without taxation. You
and I would enjoy an income like that--if we didn't have to pay an
income tax. But a better illustration really than that occurred here
in our own Pennsylvania. If there is anything I enjoy above another
on the platform, it is to get one of these German audiences in
Pennsylvania before me, and fire that at them, and I enjoy it
tonight. </span></div><div style="line-height: 200%; margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-size: medium;"> </span></div><div style="line-height: 200%; margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span style="font-size: medium;">There was a man living in Pennsylvania, not unlike some
Pennsylvanians you have seen, who owned a farm, and he did with that
farm just what I should do with a farm if I owned one in
Pennsylvania--he sold it. But before he sold it, he decided to secure
employment collecting coal oil for his cousin, who was in the
business in Canada, where they first discovered oil on this
continent. They dipped it from the running streams at that early
time. So this Pennsylvania farmer wrote to his cousin asking for
employment. You see, friends, this farmer was not altogether a
foolish man. No, he was not. He did not leave his farm until he had
something else to do. Of all the simpletons the stars shine on I
don't know of a worse one than the man who leaves one job before he
has gotten another. That has especial reference to my profession, and
has no reference whatever to a man seeking a divorce. When he wrote
to his cousin for employment, his cousin replied, ``I cannot engage
you because you know nothing about the oil business.''</span></div>
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<div style="line-height: 200%; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span style="font-size: medium;">Well,
then the old farmer said, ``I will know,'' and with most commendable
zeal (characteristic of the students of Temple University) he set
himself at the study of the whole subject. He began away back at the
second day of God's creation when this world was covered thick and
deep with that rich vegetation which since has turned to the
primitive beds of coal. He studied the subject until he found that
the draining really of those rich beds of coal furnished the coal
oil that was worth pumping, and then he found how it came up with the
living springs. He studied until he knew what it looked like, smelled
like, tasted like, and how to refine it. Now said he in his letter to
his cousin, ``I understand the oil business.'' His cousin answered,
``All right, come on.''</span></div>
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<div style="line-height: 200%; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span style="font-size: medium;">So
he sold his farm, according to the county record, for $833 (even
money, ``no cents''). He had scarcely gone from that place before the
man who purchased the spot went out to arrange for the watering of
the cattle. He found the previous owner had gone out years before and
put a plank across the brook back of the barn, edgewise into the
surface of the water just a few inches. The purpose of that plank at
that sharp angle across the brook was to throw over to the other bank
a dreadful looking scum through which the cattle would not put their
noses. But with that plank there to throw it all over to one side,
the cattle would drink below, and thus that man who had gone to
Canada had been himself damming back for twenty-three years a flood
of coal oil which the state geologists of Pennsylvania declared to us
ten years later was even then worth a hundred millions of dollars to
our state, and four years ago our geologist declared the discovery to
be worth to our state a thousand millions of dollars. The man who
owned that territory on which the city of Titusville now stands, and
those Pleasantville valleys, had studied the subject from the second
day of God's creation clear down to the present time. He studied it
until he knew all about it, and yet he is said to have sold the whole
of it for $833, and again I say, ``no sense.'' But I need another
illustration. I found it in Massachusetts, and I am sorry I did
because that is the state I came from. This young man in
Massachusetts furnishes just another phase of my thought. He went to
Yale College and studied mines and mining, and became such an adept
as a mining engineer that he was employed by the authorities of the
university to train students who were behind their classes. During
his senior year he earned $15 a week for doing that work. When he
graduated they raised his pay from $15 to $45 a week, and offered him
a professorship, and as soon as they did he went right home to his
mother.</span></div>
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<div style="line-height: 200%; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span style="font-size: medium;">*If
they had raised that boy's pay from $15 to $15.60 he would have
stayed and been proud of the place, but when they put it up to $45 at
one leap, he said, ``Mother, I won't work for $45 a week. The idea of
a man with a brain like mine working for $45 a week! Let's go out in
California and stake out gold mines and silver mines, and be
immensely rich.''</span></div>
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<br />
</div>
<div style="line-height: 200%; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span style="font-size: medium;">Said
his mother, ``Now, Charlie, it is just as well to be happy as it is
to be rich.''</span></div>
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</div>
<div style="line-height: 200%; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span style="font-size: medium;">``Yes,''
said Charlie, ``but it is just as well to be rich and happy, too.''
And they were both right about it. As he was an only son and she a
widow, of course he had his way. They always do.</span></div>
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<div style="line-height: 200%; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span style="font-size: medium;">They
sold out in Massachusetts, and instead of going to California they
went to Wisconsin, where he went into the employ of the Superior
Copper Mining Company at $15 a week again, but with the proviso in
his contract that he should have an interest in any mines he should
discover for the company. I don't believe he ever discovered a mine,
and if I am looking in the face of any stockholder of that copper
company you wish he had discovered something or other. I have friends
who are not here because they could not afford a ticket, who did have
stock in that company at the time this young man was employed there.
This young man went out there, and I have not heard a word from him.
I don't know what became of him, and I don't know whether he found
any mines or not, but I don't believe he ever did.</span></div>
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</div>
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<br />
</div>
<div style="line-height: 200%; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span style="font-size: medium;">But
I do know the other end of the line. He had scarcely gotten out of
the old homestead before the succeeding owner went out to dig
potatoes. The potatoes were already growing in the ground when he
bought the farm, and as the old farmer was bringing in a basket of
potatoes it hugged very tight between the ends of the stone fence.
You know in Massachusetts our farms are nearly all stone wall. There
you are obliged to be very economical of front gateways in order to
have some place to put the stone. When that basket hugged so tight he
set it down on the ground, and then dragged on one side, and pulled
on the other side, and as he was dragging that basket through this
farmer noticed in the upper and outer corner of that stone wall,
right next the gate, a block of native silver eight inches square.
That professor of mines, mining, and mineralogy who knew so much
about the subject that he would not work for $45 a week, when he sold
that homestead in Massachusetts sat right on that silver to make the
bargain. He was born on that homestead, was brought up there, and had
gone back and forth rubbing the stone with his sleeve until it
reflected his countenance, and seemed to say, ``Here is a hundred
thousand dollars right down here just for the taking.'' But he would
not take it. It was in a home in Newburyport, Massachusetts, and
there was no silver there, all away off--well, I don't know where,
and he did not, but somewhere else, and he was a professor of
mineralogy.</span></div>
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<div style="line-height: 200%; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span style="font-size: medium;">My
friends, that mistake is very universally made, and why should we
even smile at him. I often wonder what has become of him. I do not
know at all, but I will tell you what I ``guess'' as a Yankee. I
guess that he sits out there by his fireside tonight with his friends
gathered around him, and he is saying to them something like this:
``Do you know that man Conwell who lives in Philadelphia?'' ``Oh yes,
I have heard of him.'' ``Do you know that man Jones that lives in
Philadelphia?'' ``Yes, I have heard of him, too.''</span></div>
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</div>
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</div>
<div style="line-height: 200%; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span style="font-size: medium;">Then
he begins to laugh, and shakes his sides and says to his friends,
``Well, they have done just the same thing I did, precisely''--and
that spoils the whole joke, for you and I have done the same thing he
did, and while we sit here and laugh at him he has a better right to
sit out there and laugh at us. I know I have made the same mistakes,
but, of course, that does not make any difference, because we don't
expect the same man to preach and practice, too.</span></div>
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</div>
<div style="line-height: 200%; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span style="font-size: medium;">As
I come here tonight and look around this audience I am seeing again
what through these fifty years I have continually seen men that are
making precisely that same mistake. I often wish I could see the
younger people, and would that the Academy had been filled tonight
with our high school scholars and our grammar school scholars, that I
could have them to talk to. While I would have preferred such an
audience as that, because they are most susceptible, as they have not
grown up into their prejudices as we have, they have not gotten into
any custom that they cannot break, they have not met with any
failures as we have; and while I could perhaps do such an audience as
that more good than I can do grownup people, yet I will do the best I
can with the material I have. I say to you that you have ``acres of
diamonds'' in Philadelphia right where you now live. ``Oh,'' but you
will say, ``you cannot know much about your city if you think there
are any `acres of diamonds' here.''</span></div>
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<div style="line-height: 200%; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span style="font-size: medium;">I
was greatly interested in that account in the newspaper of the young
man who found that diamond in North Carolina. It was one of the
purest diamonds that has ever been discovered, and it has several
predecessors near the same locality. I went to a distinguished
professor in mineralogy and asked him where he thought those diamonds
came from. The professor secured the map of the geologic formations
of our continent, and traced it. He said it went either through the
underlying carboniferous strata adapted for such production, westward
through Ohio and the Mississippi, or in more probability came
eastward through Virginia and up the shore of the Atlantic Ocean. It
is a fact that the diamonds were there, for they have been discovered
and sold; and that they were carried down there during the drift
period, from some northern locality. Now who can say but some person
going down with his drill in Philadelphia will find some trace of a
diamond mine yet down here? Oh, friends! you cannot say that you are
not over one of the greatest diamond mines in the world, for such a
diamond as that only comes from the most profitable mines that are
found on earth.</span></div>
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</div>
<div style="line-height: 200%; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span style="font-size: medium;">But
it serves simply to illustrate my thought, which I emphasize by
saying if you do not have the actual diamond mines literally you have
all that they would be good for to you. Because now that the Queen of
England has given the greatest compliment ever conferred upon
American woman for her attire because she did not appear with any
jewels at all at the late reception in England, it has almost done
away with the use of diamonds anyhow. All you would care for would be
the few you would wear if you wish to be modest, and the rest you
would sell for money.</span></div>
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<div style="line-height: 200%; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span style="font-size: medium;">Now
then, I say again that the opportunity to get rich, to attain unto
great wealth, is here in Philadelphia now, within the reach of almost
every man and woman who hears me speak tonight, and I mean just what
I say. I have not come to this platform even under these
circumstances to recite something to you. I have come to tell you
what in God's sight I believe to be the truth, and if the years of
life have been of any value to me in the attainment of common sense,
I know I am right; that the men and women sitting here, who found it
difficult perhaps to buy a ticket to this lecture or gathering
tonight, have within their reach ``acres of diamonds,'' opportunities
to get largely wealthy. There never was a place on earth more adapted
than the city of Philadelphia today, and never in the history of the
world did a poor man without capital have such an opportunity to get
rich quickly and honestly as he has now in our city. I say it is the
truth, and I want you to accept it as such; for if you think I have
come to simply recite something, then I would better not be here. I
have no time to waste in any such talk, but to say the things I
believe, and unless some of you get richer for what I am saying
tonight my time is wasted.</span></div>
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<div style="line-height: 200%; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span style="font-size: medium;">I
say that you ought to get rich, and it is your duty to get rich. How
many of my pious brethren say to me, ``Do you, a Christian minister,
spend your time going up and down the country advising young people
to get rich, to get money?'' ``Yes, of course I do.'' They say,
``Isn't that awful! Why don't you preach the gospel instead of
preaching about man's making money?'' ``Because to make money
honestly is to preach the gospel.'' That is the reason. The men who
get rich may be the most honest men you find in the community.</span></div>
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<div style="line-height: 200%; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span style="font-size: medium;">``Oh,''
but says some young man here tonight, ``I have been told all my life
that if a person has money he is very dishonest and dishonorable and
mean and contemptible. ``My friend, that is the reason why you have
none, because you have that idea of people. The foundation of your
faith is altogether false. Let me say here clearly, and say it
briefly, though subject to discussion which I have not time for here,
ninety-eight out of one hundred of the rich men of America are
honest. That is why they are rich. That is why they are trusted with
money. That is why they carry on great enterprises and find plenty of
people to work with them. It is because they are honest men.</span></div>
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</div>
<div style="line-height: 200%; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span style="font-size: medium;">Says
another young man, ``I hear sometimes of men that get millions of
dollars dishonestly.'' Yes, of course you do, and so do I. But they
are so rare a thing in fact that the newspapers talk about them all
the time as a matter of news until you get the idea that all the
other rich men got rich dishonestly.</span></div>
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</div>
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</div>
<div style="line-height: 200%; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span style="font-size: medium;">My
friend, you take and drive me--if you furnish the auto--out into the
suburbs of Philadelphia, and introduce me to the people who own their
homes around this great city, those beautiful homes with gardens and
flowers, those magnificent homes so lovely in their art, and I will
introduce you to the very best people in character as well as in
enterprise in our city, and you know I will. A man is not really a
true man until he owns his own home, and they that own their homes
are made more honorable and honest and pure, and true and economical
and careful, by owning the home.</span></div>
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<br />
</div>
<div style="line-height: 200%; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<br />
</div>
<div style="line-height: 200%; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span style="font-size: medium;">For
a man to have money, even in large sums, is not an inconsistent
thing. We preach against covetousness, and you know we do, in the
pulpit, and oftentimes preach against it so long and use the terms
about ``filthy lucre'' so extremely that Christians get the idea that
when we stand in the pulpit we believe it is wicked for any man to
have money--until the collection basket goes around, and then we
almost swear at the people because they don't give more money. Oh,
the inconsistency of such doctrines as that!</span></div>
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<div style="line-height: 200%; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span style="font-size: medium;">Money
is power, and you ought to be reasonably ambitious to have it. You
ought because you can do more good with it than you could without it.
Money printed your Bible, money builds your churches, money sends
your missionaries, and money pays your preachers, and you would not
have many of them, either, if you did not pay them. I am always
willing that my church should raise my salary, because the church
that pays the largest salary always raises it the easiest. You never
knew an exception to it in your life. The man who gets the largest
salary can do the most good with the power that is furnished to him.
Of course he can if his spirit be right to use it for what it is
given to him.</span></div>
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<div style="line-height: 200%; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span style="font-size: medium;">I
say, then, you ought to have money. If you can honestly attain unto
riches in Philadelphia, it is your Christian and godly duty to do so.
It is an awful mistake of these pious people to think you must be
awfully poor in order to be pious.</span></div>
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<br />
</div>
<div style="line-height: 200%; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<br />
</div>
<div style="line-height: 200%; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span style="font-size: medium;">Some
men say, ``Don't you sympathize with the poor people?'' Of course I
do, or else I would not have been lecturing these years. I won't give
in but what I sympathize with the poor, but the number of poor who
are to be sympathized with is very small. To sympathize with a man
whom God has punished for his sins, thus to help him when God would
still continue a just punishment, is to do wrong, no doubt about it,
and we do that more than we help those who are deserving. While we
should sympathize with God's poor--that is, those who cannot help
themselves-- let us remember there is not a poor person in the United
States who was not made poor by his own shortcomings, or by the
shortcomings of some one else. It is all wrong to be poor, anyhow.
Let us give in to that argument and pass that to one side.</span></div>
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</div>
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</div>
<div style="line-height: 200%; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span style="font-size: medium;">A
gentleman gets up back there, and says, ``Don't you think there are
some things in this world that are better than money?'' Of course I
do, but I am talking about money now. Of course there are some things
higher than money. Oh yes, I know by the grave that has left me
standing alone that there are some things in this world that are
higher and sweeter and purer than money. Well do I know there are
some things higher and grander than gold. Love is the grandest thing
on God's earth, but fortunate the lover who has plenty of money.
Money is power, money is force, money will do good as well as harm.
In the hands of good men and women it could accomplish, and it has
accomplished, good.</span></div>
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</div>
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</div>
<div style="line-height: 200%; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span style="font-size: medium;">I
hate to leave that behind me. I heard a man get up in a prayer
meeting in our city and thank the Lord he was ``one of God's poor.''
Well, I wonder what his wife thinks about that? She earns all the
money that comes into that house, and he smokes a part of that on the
veranda. I don't want to see any more of the Lord's poor of that
kind, and I don't believe the Lord does. And yet there are some
people who think in order to be pious you must be awfully poor and
awfully dirty. That does not follow at all. While we sympathize with
the poor, let us not teach a doctrine like that.</span></div>
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<br />
</div>
<div style="line-height: 200%; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<br />
</div>
<div style="line-height: 200%; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span style="font-size: medium;">Yet
the age is prejudiced against advising a Christian man (or, as a Jew
would say, a godly man) from attaining unto wealth. The prejudice is
so universal and the years are far enough back, I think, for me to
safely mention that years ago up at Temple University there was a
young man in our theological school who thought he was the only pious
student in that department. He came into my office one evening and
sat down by my desk, and said to me: ``Mr. President, I think it is
my duty sir, to come in and labor with you.'' ``What has happened
now?'' Said he, ``I heard you say at the Academy, at the Pierce
School commencement, that you thought it was an honorable ambition
for a young man to desire to have wealth, and that you thought it
made him temperate, made him anxious to have a good name, and made
him industrious. You spoke about man's ambition to have money helping
to make him a good man. Sir, I have come to tell you the Holy Bible
says that `money is the root of all evil.' ''</span></div>
<div style="line-height: 200%; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<br />
</div>
<div style="line-height: 200%; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span style="font-size: medium;">I
told him I had never seen it in the Bible, and advised him to go out
into the chapel and get the Bible, and show me the place. So out he
went for the Bible, and soon he stalked into my office with the Bible
open, with all the bigoted pride of the narrow sectarian, or of one
who founds his Christianity on some misinterpretation of Scripture.
He flung the Bible down on my desk, and fairly squealed into my ear:
``There it is, Mr. President; you can read it for yourself.'' I said
to him: ``Well,young man, you will learn when you get a little older
that you cannot trust another denomination to read the Bible for you.
You belong to another denomination. You are taught in the theological
school, however, that emphasis is exegesis. Now,will you take that
Bible and read it yourself, and give the proper emphasis to it?''</span></div>
<div style="line-height: 200%; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<br />
</div>
<div style="line-height: 200%; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span style="font-size: medium;">He
took the Bible, and proudly read, `` `The love of money is the root
of all evil.' ''</span></div>
<div style="line-height: 200%; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<br />
</div>
<div style="line-height: 200%; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span style="font-size: medium;">Then
he had it right, and when one does quote aright from that same old
Book he quotes the absolute truth. I have lived through fifty years
of the mightiest battle that old Book has ever fought, and I have
lived to see its banners flying free;for never in the history of this
world did the great minds of earth so universally agree that the
Bible is true--all true—as they do at this very hour.</span></div>
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<br />
</div>
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<br />
</div>
<div style="line-height: 200%; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span style="font-size: medium;">So
I say that when he quoted right, of course he quoted the absolute
truth. ``The love of money is the root of all evil.'' He who tries to
attain unto it too quickly, or dishonestly, will fall into many
snares, no doubt about that. The love of money. What is that? It is
making an idol of money, and idolatry pure and simple everywhere is
condemned by the Holy Scriptures and by man's common sense. The man
that worships the dollar instead of thinking of the purposes for
which it ought to be used, the man who idolizes simply money, the
miser that hordes his money in the cellar, or hides it in his
stocking, or refuses to invest it where it will do the world good,
that man who hugs the dollar until the eagle squeals has in him the
root of all evil.</span></div>
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<br />
</div>
<div style="line-height: 200%; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<br />
</div>
<div style="line-height: 200%; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span style="font-size: medium;">I
think I will leave that behind me now and answer the question of
nearly all of you who are asking, ``Is there opportunity to get rich
in Philadelphia?'' Well, now, how simple a thing it is to see where
it is, and the instant you see where it is it is yours. Some old
gentleman gets up back there and says, ``Mr. Conwell, have you lived
in Philadelphia for thirty- one years and don't know that the time
has gone by when you can make anything in this city?'' ``No, I don't
think it is.'' ``Yes, it is; I have tried it.'' ``What business are
you in?'' ``I kept a store here for twenty years, and never made over
a thousand dollars in the whole twenty years.''</span></div>
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<br />
</div>
<div style="line-height: 200%; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span style="font-size: medium;">``Well,
then, you can measure the good you have been to this city by what
this city has paid you, because a man can judge very well what he is
worth by what he receives; that is, in what he is to the world at
this time. If you have not made over a thousand dollars in twenty
years in Philadelphia, it would have been better for Philadelphia if
they had kicked you out of the city nineteen years and nine months
ago. A man has no right to keep a store in Philadelphia twenty years
and not make at least five hundred thousand dollars even though it be
a corner grocery uptown.' You say, ``You cannot make five thousand
dollars in a store now.'' Oh, my friends, if you will just take only
four blocks around you, and find out what the people want and what
you ought to supply and set them down with your pencil and figure up
the profits you would make if you did supply them, you would very
soon see it. There is wealth right within the sound of your voice.</span></div>
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<br />
</div>
<div style="line-height: 200%; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<br />
</div>
<div style="line-height: 200%; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span style="font-size: medium;">Some
one says: ``You don't know anything about business. A preacher never
knows a thing about business.'' Well, then, I will have to prove that
I am an expert. I don't like to do this, but I have to do it because
my testimony will not be taken if I am not an expert. My father kept
a country store, and if there is any place under the stars where a
man gets all sorts of experience in every kind of mercantile
transactions, it is in the country store. I am not proud of my
experience, but sometimes when my father was away he would leave me
in charge of the store, though fortunately for him that was not very
often. But this did occur many times, friends: A man would come in
the store, and say to me, ``Do you keep jack knives?'' ``No, we don't
keep jack knives,'' and I went off whistling a tune. What did I care
about that man, anyhow? Then another farmer would come in and say,
``Do you keep jack knives?'' ``No, we don't keep jack knives.'' Then
I went away and whistled another tune. Then a third man came right in
the same door and said, ``Do you keep jack knives?'' ``No. Why is
every one around here asking for jack knives? Do you suppose we are
keeping this store to supply the whole neighborhood with jack
knives?'' Do you carry on your store like that in Philadelphia? The
difficulty was I had not then learned that the foundation of
godliness and the foundation principle of success in business are
both the same precisely. The man who says, ``I cannot carry my
religion into business'' advertises himself either as being an
imbecile in business, or on the road to bankruptcy, or a thief, one
of the three, sure. He will fail within a very few years. He
certainly will if he doesn't carry his religion into business. If I
had been carrying on my father's store on a Christian plan, godly
plan, I would have had a jack knife for the third man when he called
for it. Then I would have actually done him a kindness, and I would
have received a reward myself, which it would have been my duty to
take.</span></div>
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<br />
</div>
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<br />
</div>
<div style="line-height: 200%; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span style="font-size: medium;">There
are some over-pious Christian people who think if you take any profit
on anything you sell that you are an unrighteous man. On the
contrary, you would be a criminal to sell goods for less than they
cost. You have no right to do that. You cannot trust a man with your
money who cannot take care of his own. You cannot trust a man in your
family that is not true to his own wife. You cannot trust a man in
the world that does not begin with his own heart, his own character,
and his own life. It would have been my duty to have furnished a jack
knife to the third man, or the second, and to have sold it to him and
actually profited myself. I have no more right to sell goods without
making a profit on them than I have to overcharge him dishonestly
beyond what they are worth. But I should so sell each bill of goods
that the person to whom I sell shall make as much as I make.</span></div>
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<br />
</div>
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<br />
</div>
<div style="line-height: 200%; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span style="font-size: medium;">To
live and let live is the principle of the gospel, and the principle
of everyday common sense. Oh, young man, hear me; live as you go
along. Do not wait until you have reached my years before you begin
to enjoy anything of this life. If I had the millions back, or fifty
cents of it, which I have tried to earn in these years, it would not
do me anything like the good that it does me now in this almost
sacred presence tonight. Oh, yes, I am paid over and over a
hundredfold tonight for dividing as I have tried to do in some
measure as I went along through the years. I ought not speak that
way, it sounds egotistic, but I am old enough now to be excused for
that. I should have helped my fellow men, which I have tried to do,
and every one should try to do, and get the happiness of it. The man
who goes home with the sense that he has stolen a dollar that day,
that he has robbed a man of what was his honest due, is not going to
sweet rest. He arises tired in the morning, and goes with an unclean
conscience to his work the next day. He is not a successful man at
all, although he may have laid up millions. But the man who has gone
through life dividing always with his fellowmen, making and demanding
his own rights and his own profits, and giving to every other man his
rights and profits, lives every day, and not only that, but it is the
royal road to great wealth. The history of the thousands of
millionaires shows that to be the case. </span>
</div>
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<br />
</div>
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<br />
</div>
<div style="line-height: 200%; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span style="font-size: medium;">The
man over there who said he could not make anything in a store in
Philadelphia has been carrying on his store on the wrong principle.
Suppose I go into your store tomorrow morning and ask, ``Do you know
neighbor A, who lives one square away, at house No. 1240?'' ``Oh yes,
I have met him. He deals here at the corner store.'' ``Where did he
come from?'' ``I don't know.'' ``How many does he have in his
family?'' ``I don't know.'' ``What ticket does he vote?'' ``I don't
know.'' ``What church does he go to?'' ``I don't know, and don't
care. What are you asking all these questions for?''</span></div>
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<br />
</div>
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<br />
</div>
<div style="line-height: 200%; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span style="font-size: medium;">If
you had a store in Philadelphia would you answer me like that? If so,
then you are conducting your business just as I carried on my
father's business in Worthington, Massachusetts. You don't know where
your neighbor came from when he moved to Philadelphia, and you don't
care. If you had cared you would be a rich man now. If you had cared
enough about him to take an interest in his affairs, to find out what
he needed, you would have been rich. But you go through the world
saying, ``No opportunity to get rich,'' and there is the fault right
at your own door.</span></div>
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<br />
</div>
<div style="line-height: 200%; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<br />
</div>
<div style="line-height: 200%; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span style="font-size: medium;">But
another young man gets up over there and says, ``I cannot take up the
mercantile business.'' (While I am talking of trade it applies to
every occupation.) ``Why can't you go into the mercantile business?''
``Because I haven't any capital.'' Oh, the weak and dudish creature
that can't see over its collar! It makes a person weak to see these
little dudes standing around the corners and saying, ``Oh, if I had
plenty of capital, how rich I would get.'' ``Young man, do you think
you are going to get rich on capital?'' ``Certainly.'' Well, I say,
``Certainly not.'' If your mother has plenty of money, and she will
set you up in business, you will ``set her up in business,''
supplying you with capital.</span></div>
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<br />
</div>
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<br />
</div>
<div style="line-height: 200%; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span style="font-size: medium;">The
moment a young man or woman gets more money than he or she has grown
to by practical experience, that moment he has gotten a curse. It is
no help to a young man or woman to inherit money. It is no help to
your children to leave them money, but if you leave them education,
if you leave them Christian and noble character, if you leave them a
wide circle of friends, if you leave them an honorable name, it is
far better than that they should have money. It would be worse for
them, worse for the nation, that they should have any money at all.
Oh, young man, if you have inherited money, don't regard it as a
help. It will curse you through your years, and deprive you of the
very best things of human life. There is no class of people to be
pitied so much as the inexperienced sons and daughters of the rich of
our generation. I pity the rich man's son. He can never know the best
things in life.</span></div>
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<br />
</div>
<div style="line-height: 200%; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span style="font-size: medium;">One
of the best things in our life is when a young man has earned his own
living, and when he becomes engaged to some lovely young woman, and
makes up his mind to have a home of his own. Then with that same love
comes also that divine inspiration toward better things, and he
begins to save his money. He begins to leave off his bad habits and
put money in the bank. When he has a few hundred dollars he goes out
in the suburbs to look for a home. He goes to the savings bank,
perhaps, for half of the value, and then goes for his wife, and when
he takes his bride over the threshold of that door for the first time
he says in words of eloquence my voice can never touch: ``I have
earned this home myself. It is all mine, and I divide with thee.''
That is the grandest moment a human heart may ever know.</span></div>
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<br />
</div>
<div style="line-height: 200%; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span style="font-size: medium;">But
a rich man's son can never know that. He takes his bride into a finer
mansion, it may be, but he is obliged to go all the way through it
and say to his wife, ``My mother gave me that, my mother gave me
that, and my mother gave me this,'' until his wife wishes she had
married his mother. I pity the rich man's son.</span></div>
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<br />
</div>
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<br />
</div>
<div style="line-height: 200%; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span style="font-size: medium;">The
statistics of Massachusetts showed that not one rich man's son out of
seventeen ever dies rich. I pity the rich man's sons unless they have
the good sense of the elder Vanderbilt, which sometimes happens. He
went to his father and said, ``Did you earn all your money?'' ``I
did, my son. I began to work on a ferry boat for twenty-five cents a
day.'' ``Then,'' said his son, ``I will have none of your money,''
and he, too, tried to get employment on a ferry boat that Saturday
night. He could not get one there, but he did get a place for three
dollars a week. Of course, if a rich man's son will do that, he will
get the discipline of a poor boy that is worth more than a university
education to any man. He would then be able to take care of the
millions of his father. But as a rule the rich men will not let their
sons do the very thing that made them great. As a rule, the rich man
will not allow his son to work--and his mother! Why, she would think
it was a social disgrace if her poor, weak, little lily-fingered,
sissy sort of a boy had to earn his living with honest toil. I have
no pity for such rich men's sons.</span></div>
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<br />
</div>
<div style="line-height: 200%; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span style="font-size: medium;">I
remember one at Niagara Falls. I think I remember one a great deal
nearer. I think there are gentlemen present who were at a great
banquet, and I beg pardon of his friends. At a banquet here in
Philadelphia there sat beside me a kindhearted young man, and he
said, ``Mr. Conwell, you have been sick for two or three years. When
you go out, take my limousine, and it will take you up to your house
on Broad Street.'' I thanked him very much, and perhaps I ought not
to mention the incident in this way, but I follow the facts. I got on
to the seat with the driver of that limousine, outside, and when we
were going up I asked the driver, ``How much did this limousine
cost?'' ``Six thousand eight hundred, and he had to pay the duty on
it.'' ``Well,'' I said, ``does the owner of this machine ever drive
it himself?'' At that the chauffeur laughed so heartily that he lost
control of his machine. He was so surprised at the question that he
ran up on the sidewalk, and around a corner lamp post out into the
street again. And when he got out into the street he laughed till the
whole machine trembled. He said: ``He drive this machine! Oh, he
would be lucky if he knew enough to get out when we get there.''</span></div>
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<br />
</div>
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<br />
</div>
<div style="line-height: 200%; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span style="font-size: medium;">I
must tell you about a rich man's son at Niagara Falls. I came in from
the lecture to the hotel, and as I approached the desk of the clerk
there stood a millionaire's son from New York. He was an
indescribable specimen of anthropologic potency. He had a skull cap
on one side of his head, with a gold tassel in the top of it, and a
gold headed cane under his arm with more in it than in his head. It
is a very difficult thing to describe that young man. He wore an
eyeglass that he could not see through, patent leather boots that he
could not walk in, and pants that he could not sit down in--dressed
like a grasshopper. This human cricket came up to the clerk's desk
just as I entered, adjusted his unseeing eyeglass, and spake in this
wise to the clerk. You see, he thought it was ``Hinglish, you know,''
to lisp. ``Thir, will you have the kindness to supply me with thome
papah and enwelophs!'' The hotel clerk measured that man quick, and
he pulled the envelopes and paper out of a drawer, threw them across
the counter toward the young man, and then turned away to his books.
You should have seen that young man when those envelopes came across
that counter. He swelled up like a gobbler turkey, adjusted his
unseeing eyeglass, and yelled: ``Come right back here. Now thir, will
you order a thervant to take that papah and enwelophs to yondah
dethk.'' Oh, the poor, miserable, contemptible American monkey! He
could not carry paper and envelopes twenty feet. I suppose he could
not get his arms down to do it. I have no pity for such travesties
upon human nature. If you have not capital, young man, I am glad of
it. What you need is common sense, not copper cents. </span>
</div>
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<br />
</div>
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<br />
</div>
<div style="line-height: 200%; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span style="font-size: medium;">The
best thing I can do is to illustrate by actual facts well known to
you all. A. T. Stewart, a poor boy in New York, had $1.50 to begin
life on. He lost 87 cents of that on the very first venture. How
fortunate that young man who loses the first time he gambles. That
boy said, ``I will never gamble again in business,'' and he never
did. How came he to lose 87 cents? You probably all know the story
how he lost it--because he bought some needles, threads, and buttons
to sell which people did not want, and had them left on his hands, a
dead loss. Said the boy, ``I will not lose any more money in that
way.'' Then he went around first to the doors and asked the people
what they did want. Then when he had found out what they wanted he
invested his 63 cents to supply a known demand. Study it wherever you
choose--in business, in your profession, in your housekeeping,
whatever your life, that one thing is the secret of success. You must
first know the demand. You must first know what people need, and then
invest yourself where you are most needed. A. T. Stewart went on that
principle until he was worth what amounted afterward to forty
millions of dollars, owning the very store in which Mr. Wanamaker
carries on his great work in New York. His fortune was made by his
losing something, which taught him the great lesson that he must only
invest himself or his money in something that people need. When will
you salesmen learn it? When will you manufacturers learn that you
must know the changing needs of humanity if you would succeed in
life? Apply yourselves, all you Christian people, as manufacturers or
merchants or workmen to supply that human need. It is a great
principle as broad as humanity and as deep as the Scripture itself.</span></div>
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<br />
</div>
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<br />
</div>
<div style="line-height: 200%; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span style="font-size: medium;">The
best illustration I ever heard was of John Jacob Astor. You know that
he made the money of the Astor family when he lived in New York. He
came across the sea in debt for his fare. But that poor boy with
nothing in his pocket made the fortune of the Astor family on one
principle. Some young man here tonight will say, ``Well they could
make those fortunes over in New York but they could not do it in
Philadelphia!'' My friends, did you ever read that wonderful book of
Riis (his memory is sweet to us because of his recent death), wherein
is given his statistical account of the records taken in 1889 of 107
millionaires of New York. If you read the account you will see that
out of the 107 millionaires only seven made their money in New York.
Out of the 107 millionaires worth ten million dollars in real estate
then, 67 of them made their money in towns of less than 3,500
inhabitants. The richest man in this country today, if you read the
real estate values, has never moved away from a town of 3,500
inhabitants. It makes not so much difference where you are as who you
are. But if you cannot get rich in Philadelphia you certainly cannot
do it in New York.</span></div>
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<br />
</div>
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<br />
</div>
<div style="line-height: 200%; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span style="font-size: medium;">Now
John Jacob Astor illustrated what can be done anywhere. He had a
mortgage once on a millinery store, and they could not sell bonnets
enough to pay the interest on his money. So he foreclosed that
mortgage, took possession of the store, and went into partnership
with the very same people, in the same store, with the same capital.
He did not give them a dollar of capital. They had to sell goods to
get any money. Then he left them alone in the store just as they had
been before, and he went out and sat down on a bench in the park in
the shade. What was John Jacob Astor doing out there, and in
partnership with people who had failed on his own hands? He had the
most important and, to my mind, the most pleasant part of that
partnership on his hands. For as John Jacob Astor sat on that bench
he was watching the ladies as they went by; and where is the man who
would not get rich at that business? As he sat on the bench if a lady
passed him with her shoulders back and head up, and looked straight
to the front, as if she did not care if all the world did gaze on
her, then he studied her bonnet, and by the time it was out of sight
he knew the shape of the frame, the color of the trimmings, and the
crinklings in the feather. I sometimes try to describe a bonnet, but
not always. I would not try to describe a modern bonnet. Where is the
man that could describe one? This aggregation of all sorts of
driftwood stuck on the back of the head, or the side of the neck,
like a rooster with only one tail feather left. But in John Jacob
Astor's day there was some art about the millinery business, and he
went to the millinery store and said to them: ``Now put into the show
window just such a bonnet as I describe to you, because I have
already seen a lady who likes such a bonnet. Don't make up any more
until I come back.'' Then he went out and sat down again, and another
lady passed him of a different form, of different complexion, with a
different shape and color of bonnet. ``Now,'' said he, ``put such a
bonnet as that in the show window.'' He did not fill his show window
up town with a lot of hats and bonnets to drive people away, and then
sit on the back stairs and bawl because people went to Wanamaker's to
trade. He did not have a hat or a bonnet in that show window but what
some lady liked before it was made up. The tide of custom began
immediately to turn in, and that has been the foundation of the
greatest store in New York in that line, and still exists as one of
three stores. Its fortune was made by John Jacob Astor after they had
failed in business, not by giving them any more money, but by finding
out what the ladies liked for bonnets before they wasted any material
in making them up. I tell you if a man could foresee the millinery
business he could foresee anything under heaven! </span>
</div>
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<br />
</div>
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<br />
</div>
<div style="line-height: 200%; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span style="font-size: medium;">Suppose
I were to go through this audience tonight and ask you in this great
manufacturing city if there are not opportunities to get rich in
manufacturing. ``Oh yes,'' some young man says, ``there are
opportunities here still if you build with some trust and if you have
two or three millions of dollars to begin with as capital.'' Young
man, the history of the breaking up of the trusts by that attack upon
``big business'' is only illustrating what is now the opportunity of
the smaller man. The time never came in the history of the world when
you could get rich so quickly manufacturing without capital as you
can now.</span></div>
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<div style="line-height: 200%; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span style="font-size: medium;">But
you will say, ``You cannot do anything of the kind. You cannot start
without capital.'' Young man, let me illustrate for a moment. I must
do it. It is my duty to every young man and woman, because we are all
going into business very soon on the same plan. Young man, remember
if you know what people need you have gotten more knowledge of a
fortune than any amount of capital can give you.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: medium;">There
was a poor man out of work living in Hingham, Massachusetts. He
lounged around the house until one day his wife told him to get out
and work, and, as he lived in Massachusetts, he obeyed his wife. He
went out and sat down on the shore of the bay, and whittled a soaked
shingle into a wooden chain. His children that evening quarreled over
it, and he whittled a second one to keep peace. While he was
whittling the second one a neighbor came in and said: ``Why don't you
whittle toys and sell them? You could make money at that.'' ``Oh,''
he said, ``I would not know what to make.'' ``Why don't you ask your
own children right here in your own house what to make?'' ``What is
the use of trying that?'' said the carpenter. ``My children are
different from other people's children.'' (I used to see people like
that when I taught school.) But he acted upon the hint, and the next
morning when Mary came down the stairway, he asked, ``What do you
want for a toy?'' She began to tell him she would like a doll's bed,
a doll's washstand, a doll's carriage, a little doll's umbrella, and
went on with a list of things that would take him a lifetime to
supply. So, consulting his own children, in his own house, he took
the firewood, for he had no money to buy lumber, and whittled those
strong, unpainted Hingham toys that were for so many years known all
over the world. That man began to make those toys for his own
children, and then made copies and sold them through the boot and
shoe store next door. He began to make a little money, and then a
little more, and Mr. Lawson, in his Frenzied Finance says that man is
the richest man in old Massachusetts, and I think it is the truth.
And that man is worth a hundred millions of dollars today, and has
been only thirty-four years making it on that one principle-- that
one must judge that what his own children like at home other people's
children would like in their homes, too; to judge the human heart by
oneself, by one's wife or by one's children. It is the royal road to
success in manufacturing. ``Oh,'' but you say, ``didn't he have any
capital?'' Yes, a penknife, but I don't know that he had paid for
that.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: medium;">I
spoke thus to an audience in New Britain, Connecticut, and a lady
four seats back went home and tried to take off her collar, and the
collar button stuck in the buttonhole. She threw it out and said, ``I
am going to get up something better than that to put on collars.''
Her husband said: ``After what Conwell said tonight, you see there is
a need of an improved collar fastener that is easier to handle. There
is a human need; there is a great fortune. Now, then, get up a collar
button and get rich.'' He made fun of her, and consequently made fun
of me, and that is one of the saddest things which comes over me like
a deep cloud of midnight sometimes--although I have worked so hard
for more than half a century, yet how little I have ever really done.
Notwithstanding the greatness and the handsomeness of your compliment
tonight, I do not believe there is one in ten of you that is going to
make a million of dollars because you are here tonight; but it is not
my fault, it is yours. I say that sincerely. What is the use of my
talking if people never do what I advise them to do? When her husband
ridiculed her, she made up her mind she would make a better collar
button, and when a woman makes up her mind ``she will,'' and does not
say anything about it, she does it. It was that New England woman who
invented the snap button that you can find anywhere now. It was first
a collar button with a spring cap attached to the outer side. Any of
you who wear modern waterproofs know the button that simply pushes
together, and when you unbutton it you simply pull it apart. That is
the button to which I refer, and which she invented. She afterward
invented several other buttons, and then invested in more, and then
was taken into partnership with great factories. Now that woman goes
over the sea every summer in her private steamship--yes, and takes
her husband with her! If her husband were to die, she would have
money enough left now to buy a foreign duke or count or some such
title as that at the latest quotations.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: medium;">Now
what is my lesson in that incident? It is this: I told her then,
though I did not know her, what I now say to you, ``Your wealth is
too near to you. You are looking right over it''; and she had to look
over it because it was right under her chin.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: medium;">I
have read in the newspaper that a woman never invented anything.
Well, that newspaper ought to begin again. Of course, I do not refer
to gossip--I refer to machines--and if I did I might better include
the men. That newspaper could never appear if women had not invented
something. Friends, think. Ye women, think! You say you cannot make a
fortune because you are in some laundry, or running a sewing machine,
it may be, or walking before some loom, and yet you can be a
millionaire if you will but follow this almost infallible direction.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: medium;">When
you say a woman doesn't invent anything, I ask, Who invented the
Jacquard loom that wove every stitch you wear? Mrs. Jacquard. The
printer's roller, the printing press, were invented by farmers'
wives. Who invented the cotton gin of the South that enriched our
country so amazingly? Mrs. General Greene invented the cotton gin and
showed the idea to Mr. Whitney, and he, like a man, seized it. Who
was it that invented the sewing machine? If I would go to school
tomorrow and ask your children they would say, ``Elias Howe.''</span></div>
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<div style="line-height: 200%; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span style="font-size: medium;">He
was in the Civil War with me, and often in my tent, and I often heard
him say that he worked fourteen years to get up that sewing machine.
But his wife made up her mind one day that they would starve to death
if there wasn't something or other invented pretty soon, and so in
two hours she invented the sewing machine. Of course he took out the
patent in his name. Men always do that. Who was it that invented the
mower and the reaper? According to Mr. McCormick's confidential
communication, so recently published, it was a West Virginia woman,
who, after his father and he had failed altogether in making a reaper
and gave it up, took a lot of shears and nailed them together on the
edge of a board, with one shaft of each pair loose, and then wired
them so that when she pulled the wire one way it closed them, and
when she pulled the wire the other way it opened them, and there she
had the principle of the mowing machine. If you look at a mowing
machine, you will see it is nothing but a lot of shears. If a woman
can invent a mowing machine, if a woman can invent a Jacquard loom,
if a woman can invent a cotton gin, if a woman can invent a trolley
switch--as she did and made the trolleys possible; if a woman can
invent, as Mr. Carnegie said, the great iron squeezers that laid the
foundation of all the steel millions of the United States, ``we men''
can invent anything under the stars! I say that for the encouragement
of the men.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: medium;">Who
are the great inventors of the world? Again this lesson comes before
us. The great inventor sits next to you, or you are the person
yourself. ``Oh,'' but you will say, ``I have never invented anything
in my life.'' Neither did the great inventors until they discovered
one great secret. Do you think it is a man with a head like a bushel
measure or a man like a stroke of lightning? It is neither. The
really great man is a plain, straightforward, everyday, common sense
man. You would not dream that he was a great inventor if you did not
see something he had actually done. His neighbors do not regard him
so great. You never see anything great over your back fence. You say
there is no greatness among your neighbors. It is all away off
somewhere else. Their greatness is ever so simple, so plain, so
earnest, so practical, that the neighbors and friends never recognize
it.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: medium;">True
greatness is often unrecognized. That is sure. You do not know
anything about the greatest men and women. I went out to write the
life of General Garfield, and a neighbor, knowing I was in a hurry,
and as there was a great crowd around the front door, took me around
to General Garfield's back door and shouted, ``Jim! Jim!'' And very
soon ``Jim'' came to the door and let me in, and I wrote the
biography of one of the grandest men of the nation, and yet he was
just the same old ``Jim'' to his neighbor. If you know a great man in
Philadelphia and you should meet him tomorrow, you would say, ``How
are you, Sam?'' or ``Good morning, Jim.'' Of course you would. That
is just what you would do.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: medium;">One
of my soldiers in the Civil War had been sentenced to death, and I
went up to the White House in Washington-- sent there for the first
time in my life to see the President. I went into the waiting room
and sat down with a lot of others on the benches, and the secretary
asked one after another to tell him what they wanted. After the
secretary had been through the line, he went in, and then came back
to the door and motioned for me. I went up to that anteroom, and the
secretary said: ``That is the President's door right over there. Just
rap on it and go right in.'' I never was so taken aback, friends, in
all my life, never. The secretary himself made it worse for me,
because he had told me how to go in and then went out another door to
the left and shut that. There I was, in the hallway by myself before
the President of the United States of America's door. I had been on
fields of battle, where the shells did sometimes shriek and the
bullets did sometimes hit me, but I always wanted to run. I have no
sympathy with the old man who says, ``I would just as soon march up
to the cannon's mouth as eat my dinner.'' I have no faith in a man
who doesn't know enough to be afraid when he is being shot at. I
never was so afraid when the shells came around us at Antietam as I
was when I went into that room that day; but I finally mustered the
courage-- I don't know how I ever did-- and at arm's length tapped on
the door. The man inside did not help me at all, but yelled out,
``Come in and sit down!'' </span>
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<span style="font-size: medium;">Well,
I went in and sat down on the edge of a chair, and wished I were in
Europe, and the man at the table did not look up. He was one of the
world's greatest men, and was made great by one single rule. Oh, that
all the young people of Philadelphia were before me now and I could
say just this one thing, and that they would remember it. I would
give a lifetime for the effect it would have on our city and on
civilization. Abraham Lincoln's principle for greatness can be
adopted by nearly all. This was his rule: Whatsoever he had to do at
all, he put his whole mind into it and held it all there until that
was all done. That makes men great almost anywhere. He stuck to those
papers at that table and did not look up at me, and I sat there
trembling. Finally, when he had put the string around his papers, he
pushed them over to one side and looked over to me, and a smile came
over his worn face. He said: ``I am a very busy man and have only a
few minutes to spare. Now tell me in the fewest words what it is you
want.'' I began to tell him, and mentioned the case, and he said: ``I
have heard all about it and you do not need to say any more. Mr.
Stanton was talking to me only a few days ago about that. You can go
to the hotel and rest assured that the President never did sign an
order to shoot a boy under twenty years of age, and never will. You
can say that to his mother anyhow.'' Then he said to me, ``How is it
going in the field?'' I said, ``We sometimes get discouraged.'' And
he said: ``It is all right. We are going to win out now. We are
getting very near the light. No man ought to wish to be President of
the United States, and I will be glad when I get through; then Tad
and I are going out to Springfield, Illinois. I have bought a farm
out there and I don't care if I again earn only twenty-five cents a
day. Tad has a mule team, and we are going to plant onions.'' Then he
asked me, ``Were you brought up on a farm?'' I said, ``Yes; in the
Berkshire Hills of Massachusetts.'' He then threw his leg over the
corner of the big chair and said, ``I have heard many a time, ever
since I was young, that up there in those hills you have to sharpen
the noses of the sheep in order to get down to the grass between the
rocks.'' He was so familiar, so everyday, so farmer-like, that I felt
right at home with him at once.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: medium;">He
then took hold of another roll of paper, and looked upat me and said,
``Good morning.'' I took the hint then and got up and went out. After
I had gotten out I could not realize I had seen the President of the
United States at all. But a few days later, when still in the city, I
saw the crowd pass through the East Room by the coffin of Abraham
Lincoln, and when I looked at the upturned face of the murdered
President I felt then that the man I had seen such a short time
before, who, so simple a man, so plain a man, was one of the greatest
men that God ever raised up to lead a nation on to ultimate liberty.
Yet he was only ``Old Abe'' to his neighbors. When they had the
second funeral, I was invited among others, and went out to see that
same coffin put back in the tomb at Springfield. Around the tomb
stood Lincoln's old neighbors, to whom he was just ``Old Abe.'' Of
course that is all they would say.</span></div>
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<div style="line-height: 200%; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span style="font-size: medium;">Did
you ever see a man who struts around altogether too large to notice
an ordinary working mechanic? Do you think he is great? He is nothing
but a puffed up balloon, held down by his big feet. There is no
greatness there.</span></div>
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<br />
</div>
<div style="line-height: 200%; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span style="font-size: medium;">Who
are the great men and women? My attention was called the other day to
the history of a very little thing that made the fortune of a very
poor man. It was an awful thing, and yet because of that experience
he--not a great inventor or genius--invented the pin that now is
called the safety pin, and out of that safety pin made the fortune of
one of the great aristocratic families of this nation.</span></div>
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<div style="line-height: 200%; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span style="font-size: medium;">A
poor man in Massachusetts who had worked in the nail works was
injured at thirty-eight, and he could earn but little money. He was
employed in the office to rub out the marks on the bills made by
pencil memorandums, and he used a rubber until his hand grew tired.
He then tied a piece of rubber on the end of a stick and worked it
like a plane. His little girl came and said, ``Why, you have a
patent, haven't you?'' The father said afterward, ``My daughter told
me when I took that stick and put the rubber on the end that there
was a patent, and that was the first thought of that.'' He went to
Boston and applied for his patent, and every one of you that has a
rubber- tipped pencil in your pocket is now paying tribute to the
millionaire. No capital, not a penny did he invest in it. All was
income, all the way up into the millions.</span></div>
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</div>
<div style="line-height: 200%; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span style="font-size: medium;">But
let me hasten to one other greater thought. ``Show me the great men
and women who live in Philadelphia.'' A gentleman over there will get
up and say: ``We don't have any great men in Philadelphia. They don't
live here. They live away off in Rome or St. Petersburg or London or
Manayunk, or anywhere else but here in our town.'' I have come now to
the apex of my thought. I have come now to the heart of the whole
matter and to the center of my struggle: Why isn't Philadelphia a
greater city in its greater wealth? Why does New York excel
Philadelphia? People say, ``Because of her harbor.'' Why do many
other cities of the United States get ahead of Philadelphia now?
There is only one answer, and that is because our own people talk
down their own city. If there ever was a community on earth that has
to be forced ahead, it is the city of Philadelphia. If we are to have
a boulevard, talk it down; if we are going to have better schools,
talk them down; if you wish to have wise legislation, talk it down;
talk all the proposed improvements down. That is the only great wrong
that I can lay at the feet of the magnificent Philadelphia that has
been so universally kind to me. I say it is time we turn around in
our city and begin to talk up the things that are in our city, and
begin to set them before the world as the people of Chicago, New
York, St. Louis, and San Francisco do. Oh, if we only could get that
spirit out among our people, that we can do things in Philadelphia
and do them well! </span>
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<div style="line-height: 200%; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span style="font-size: medium;">Arise,
ye millions of Philadelphians, trust in God and man, and believe in
the great opportunities that are right here not over in New York or
Boston, but here--for business, for everything that is worth living
for on earth. There was never an opportunity greater. Let us talk up
our own city.</span></div>
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</div>
<div style="line-height: 200%; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span style="font-size: medium;">But
there are two other young men here tonight, and that is all I will
venture to say, because it is too late. One over there gets up and
says, ``There is going to be a great man in Philadelphia, but never
was one.'' ``Oh, is that so? When are you going to be great?'' ``When
I am elected to some political office.'' Young man, won't you learn a
lesson in the primer of politics that it is a prima facie evidence of
littleness to hold office under our form of government? Great men get
into office sometimes, but what this country needs is men that will
do what we tell them to do. This nation--where the people rule—is
governed by the people, for the people, and so long as it is, then
the office holder is but the servant of the people, and the Bible
says the servant cannot be greater than the master. The Bible says,
``He that is sent cannot be greater than Him who sent Him.'' The
people rule, or should rule, and if they do, we do not need the
greater men in office. If the great men in America took our offices,
we would change to an empire in the next ten years.</span></div>
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<div style="line-height: 200%; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span style="font-size: medium;">I
know of a great many young women, now that woman's suffrage is
coming, who say, ``I am going to be President of the United States
some day.'' I believe in woman's suffrage, and there is no doubt but
what it is coming, and I am getting out of the way, anyhow. I may
want an office by and by myself; but if the ambition for an office
influences the women in their desire to vote, I want to say right
here what I say to the young men, that if you only get the privilege
of casting one vote, you don't get anything that is worth while.
Unless you can control more than one vote, you will be unknown, and
your influence so dissipated as practically not to be felt. This
country is not run by votes. Do you think it is? It is governed by
influence. It is governed by the ambitions and the enterprises that
control votes. The young woman that thinks she is going to vote for
the sake of holding an office is making an awful blunder.</span></div>
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<div style="line-height: 200%; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span style="font-size: medium;">That
other young man gets up and says, ``There are going to be great men
in this country and in Philadelphia.'' ``Is that so? When?'' ``When
there comes a great war, when we get into difficulty through watchful
waiting in Mexico; when we get into war with England over some
frivolous deed, or with Japan or China or New Jersey or some distant
country. Then I will march up to the cannon's mouth; I will sweep up
among the glistening bayonets; I will leap into the arena and tear
down the flag and bear it away in triumph. I will come home with
stars on my shoulder, and hold every office in the gift of the
nation, and I will be great.'' No, you won't. You think you are going
to be made great by an office, but remember that if you are not great
before you get the office, you won't be great when you secure it. It
will only be a burlesque in that shape.</span></div>
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<div style="line-height: 200%; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span style="font-size: medium;">We
had a Peace Jubilee here after the Spanish War. Out West they don't
believe this, because they said, ``Philadelphia would not have heard
of any Spanish War until fifty years hence.'' Some of you saw the
procession go up Broad Street. I was away, but the family wrote to me
that the tallyho coach with Lieutenant Hobson upon it stopped right
at the front door and the people shouted, ``Hurrah for Hobson!'' and
if I had been there I would have yelled too, because he deserves much
more of his country than he has ever received. But suppose I go into
school and say, ``Who sunk the Merrimac at Santiago?'' and if the
boys answer me, ``Hobson,'' they will tell me seven-eighths of a lie.
There were seven other heroes on that steamer, and they, by virtue of
their position, were continually exposed to the Spanish fire, while
Hobson, as an officer, might reasonably be behind the smoke stack.
You have gathered in this house your most intelligent people, and
yet, perhaps, not one here can name the other seven men. </span>
</div>
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<div style="line-height: 200%; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span style="font-size: medium;">We
ought not to so teach history. We ought to teach that, however humble
a man's station may be, if he does his full duty in that place he is
just as much entitled to the American people's honor as is the king
upon his throne. But we do not so teach. We are now teaching
everywhere that the generals do all the fighting.</span></div>
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<div style="line-height: 200%; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span style="font-size: medium;">I
remember that, after the war, I went down to see General Robert E.
Lee, that magnificent Christian gentleman of whom both North and
South are now proud as one of our great Americans. The general told
me about his servant, ``Rastus,'' who was an enlisted colored
soldier. He called him in one day to make fun of him, and said,
``Rastus, I hear that all the rest of your company are killed, and
why are you not killed?'' Rastus winked at him and said, `` 'Cause
when there is any fightin' goin' on I stay back with the generals.'' </span>
</div>
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<div style="line-height: 200%; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span style="font-size: medium;">I
remember another illustration. I would leave it out but for the fact
that when you go to the library to read this lecture, you will find
this has been printed in it for twenty-five years. I shut my
eyes--shut them close--and lo! I see the faces of my youth. Yes, they
sometimes say to me, ``Your hair is not white; you are working night
and day without seeming ever to stop; you can't be old.'' But when I
shut my eyes, like any other man of my years, oh, then come trooping
back the faces of the loved and lost of long ago, and I know,
whatever men may say, it is evening time.</span></div>
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<div style="line-height: 200%; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span style="font-size: medium;">I
shut my eyes now and look back to my native town in Massachusetts,
and I see the cattle show ground on the mountain top; I can see the
horse sheds there. I can see the Congregational church; see the town
hall and mountaineers' cottages; see a great assembly of people
turning out, dressed resplendently, and I can see flags flying and
handkerchiefs waving and hear bands playing. I can see that company
of soldiers that had re-enlisted marching up on that cattle show
ground. I was but a boy, but I was captain of that company and puffed
out with pride. A cambric needle would have burst me all to pieces.
Then I thought it was the greatest event that ever came to man on
earth. If you have ever thought you would like to be a king or queen,
you go and be received by the mayor.</span></div>
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<br />
</div>
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<br />
</div>
<div style="line-height: 200%; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span style="font-size: medium;">The
bands played, and all the people turned out to receive us. I marched
up that Common so proud at the head of my troops, and we turned down
into the town hall. Then they seated my soldiers down the center
aisle and I sat down on the front seat. A great assembly of people a
hundred or two—came in to fill the town hall, so that they stood up
all around. Then the town officers came in and formed a half-circle.
The mayor of the town sat in the middle of the platform. He was a man
who had never held office before; but he was a good man, and his
friends have told me that I might use this without giving them
offense. He was a good man, but he thought an office made a man
great. He came up and took his seat, adjusted his powerful
spectacles, and looked around, when he suddenly spied me sitting
there on the front seat. He came right forward on the platform and
invited me up to sit with the town officers. No town officer ever
took any notice of me before I went to war, except to advise the
teacher to thrash me, and now I was invited up on the stand with the
town officers. Oh my! The town mayor was then the emperor, the king
of our day and our time. As I came up on the platform they gave me a
chair about this far, I would say, from the front.</span></div>
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</div>
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<br />
</div>
<div style="line-height: 200%; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span style="font-size: medium;">When
I had got seated, the chairman of the Selectmen arose and came
forward to the table, and we all supposed he would introduce the
Congregational minister, who was the only orator in town, and that he
would give the oration to the returning soldiers. But, friends, you
should have seen the surprise that ran over the audience when they
discovered that the old fellow was going to deliver that speech
himself. He had never made a speech in his life, but he fell into the
same error that hundreds of other men have fallen into. It seems so
strange that a man won't learn he must speak his piece as a boy if he
intends to be an orator when he is grown, but he seems to think all
he has to do is to hold an office to be a great orator.</span></div>
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<br />
</div>
<div style="line-height: 200%; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span style="font-size: medium;">So
he came up to the front, and brought with him a speech that he had
learned by heart walking up and down the pasture, where he had
frightened the cattle. He brought the manuscript with him and spread
it out on the table so as to be sure he might see it. He adjusted his
spectacles and leaned over it for a moment and marched back on that
platform, and then came forward like this--tramp, tramp, tramp. He
must have studied the subject a great deal, when you come to think of
it, because he assumed an ``elocutionary'' attitude. He rested
heavily upon his left heel, threw back his shoulders, slightly
advanced the right foot, opened the organs of speech, and advanced
his right foot at an angle of forty-five. As he stood in that
elocutionary attitude, friends, this is just the way that speech
went. Some people say to me, ``Don't you exaggerate?'' That would be
impossible. But I am here for the lesson and not for the story, and
this is the way it went: ``Fellow citizens--'' As soon as he heard
his voice his fingers began to go like that, his knees began to
shake, and then he trembled all over. He choked and swallowed and
came around to the table to look at the manuscript. Then he gathered
himself up with clenched fists and came back: ``Fellow citizens, we
are Fellow citizens, we are--we are—we are--we are--we are--we are
very happy--we are very happy—we are very happy. We are very happy
to welcome back to their native town these soldiers who have fought
and bled—and come back again to their native town. We are
especially—we are especially--we are especially. We are especially
pleased to see with us today this young hero'' (that meant
me)--``this young hero who in imagination'' (friends, remember he
said that; if he had not said ``in imagination'' I would not be
egotistic enough to refer to it at all)--``this young hero who in
imagination we have seen leading--we have seen leading-- leading. We
have seen leading his troops on to the deadly breach. We have seen
his shining--we have seen his shining-- his shining--his shining
sword--flashing. Flashing in the sunlight, as he shouted to his
troops, `Come on'!''</span></div>
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</div>
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<br />
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<div style="line-height: 200%; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span style="font-size: medium;">Oh
dear, dear, dear! How little that good man knew about war. If he had
known anything about war at all he ought to have known what any of my
G. A. R. comrades here tonight will tell you is true, that it is next
to a crime for an officer of infantry ever in time of danger to go
ahead of his men. ``I, with my shining sword flashing in the
sunlight, shouting to my troops, `Come on!'” I never did it. Do you
suppose I would get in front of my men to be shot in front by the
enemy and in the back by my own men? That is no place for an officer.
The place for the officer in actual battle is behind the line. How
often, as a staff officer, I rode down the line, when our men were
suddenly called to the line of battle, and the Rebel yells were
coming out of the woods, and shouted: ``Officers to the rear!
Officers to the rear!'' Then every officer gets behind the line of
private soldiers, and the higher the officer's rank the farther
behind he goes. Not because he is any the less brave, but because the
laws of war require that. And yet he shouted, ``I, with my shining
sword--'' In that house there sat the company of my soldiers who had
carried that boy across the Carolina rivers that he might not wet his
feet. Some of them had gone far out to get a pig or a chicken. Some
of them had gone to death under the shell-swept pines in the
mountains of Tennessee, yet in the good man's speech they were
scarcely known. He did refer to them, but only incidentally. The hero
of the hour was this boy. Did the nation owe him anything? No,
nothing then and nothing now. Why was he the hero? Simply because
that man fell into that same human error--that this boy was great
because he was an officer and these were only private soldiers.</span></div>
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<br />
</div>
<div style="line-height: 200%; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span style="font-size: medium;">Oh,
I learned the lesson then that I will never forget so long as the
tongue of the bell of time continues to swing for me. Greatness
consists not in the holding of some future office, but really
consists in doing great deeds with little means and the
accomplishment of vast purposes from the private ranks of life. To be
great at all one must be great here, now, in Philadelphia. He who can
give to this city better streets and better sidewalks, better schools
and more colleges, more happiness and more civilization, more of God,
he will be great anywhere. Let every man or woman here, if you never
hear me again, remember this, that if you wish to be great at all,
you must begin where you are and what you are, in Philadelphia, now.
He that can give to his city any blessing, he who can be a good
citizen while he lives here, he that can make better homes, he that
can be a blessing whether he works in the shop or sits behind the
counter or keeps house, whatever be his life, he who would be great
anywhere must first be great in his own Philadelphia.</span></div>
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</div>
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<br />
</div>
<div style="line-height: 200%; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span style="font-size: medium;">You
cannot change your thoughts without changing your life in the process
-- either for good or for bad. Immerse yourself in the right thoughts
and you will become the person you long to be, just as surely as the
planting of an acorn yields an oak tree and not a pine tree.</span></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-131229601484432986.post-82120092980469169532021-12-28T00:19:00.010-08:002023-06-08T06:05:39.441-07:00 Defining Success by Subroto Bagchi,<p><span style="font-family: arial;"><span style="font-size: medium;">This is the address by Subroto Bagchi, COO, MindTree to the Class of 2006 at the Indian Institute of Management, Bangalore on "Defining Success". July 2nd, 2004.<br /><br /><br />I was the last child of a small-time government servant, in a family of five brothers. My earliest memory of my father is as that of a District Employment Officer in Koraput, Orissa. It was and remains as back of beyond as you can imagine. There was no electricity; no primary school nearby and water did not flow out of a tap. As a result, I did not go to school until the age of eight; I was home-schooled. My father used to get transferred every year. The family belongings fit into the back of a jeep - so the family moved from place to place and, without any trouble, my Mother would set up an establishment and get us going. Raised by a widow who had come as a refugee from the then East Bengal, she was a matriculate when she married my Father. My parents set the foundation of my life and the value system which makes me what I am today and largely defines what success means to me today.</span></span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><br />As District Employment Officer, my father was given a jeep by the government. There was no garage in the Office, so the jeep was parked in our house. My father refused to use it to commute to the office. He told us that the jeep is an expensive resource given by the government - he reiterated to us that it was not 'his jeep' but the government's jeep. Insisting that he would use it only to tour the interiors, he would walk to his office on normal days. He also made sure that we never sat in the government jeep - we could sit in it only when it was stationary.<br /><br /><br />That was our early childhood lesson in governance - a lesson that corporate managers learn the hard way, some never do.<br /><br /><br />The driver of the jeep was treated with the respect due to any other member of my father's office. As small children, we were taught not to call him by his name. We had to use the suffix 'dada' whenever we were to refer to him in public or private. When I grew up to own a car and a driver by the name of Raju was appointed - I repeated the lesson to my two small daughters. They have, as a result, grown up to call Raju, 'Raju Uncle' - very different from many of their friends who refer to their family drivers as 'my driver'. When I hear that term from a school- or college-going person, I cringe. To me, the lesson was significant - you treat small people with more respect than how you treat big people.<br /><br /><br />'It is more important to respect your subordinates than your superiors.'<br /><br /><br />Our day used to start with the family huddling around my Mother's chulha - an earthen fireplace she would build at each place of posting where she would cook for the family. There was no gas, nor electrical stoves. The morning routine started with tea. As the brew was served, Father would ask us to read aloud the editorial page of The Statesman's 'muffosil' edition - delivered one day late. We did not understand much of what we were reading. But the ritual was meant for us to know that the world was larger than the Koraput district and the English I speak today, despite having studied in an Oriya medium school, has to do with that routine. After reading the newspaper aloud, we were told to fold it neatly. Father taught us a simple lesson. He used to say, "You should leave your newspaper and your toilet, the way you expect to find it".<br /><br /><br />That lesson was about showing consideration to others. Business begins and ends with that simple precept.<br /><br /><br />Government houses seldom came with fences. Mother and I collected twigs and built a small fence. After lunch, my Mother would never sleep. She would take her kitchen utensils and with those, she and I would dig the rocky, white ant-infested surrounding. We planted flowering bushes. The white ants destroyed them. My mother brought ash from her chulha and mixed it in the earth and we planted the seedlings all over again. This time, they bloomed. At that time, my father's transfer order came. A few neighbors told my mother why she was taking so much pain to beautify a government house, why she was planting seeds that would only benefit the next occupant. My mother replied that it did not matter to her that she would not see the flowers in full bloom. She said, "I have to create a bloom in a desert and whenever I am given a new place, I must leave it more beautiful than what I had inherited". That was my first lesson in success.<br /><br /><br />'It is not about what you create for yourself, it is what you leave behind that defines success.'</span></span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><br />Meanwhile, the war raged and India was fighting on both fronts. Lal Bahadur Shastri, the then Prime Minster, coined the term Jai Jawan, Jai Kishan" and galvanized the nation into a patriotic fervor. Other than reading out the newspaper to my mother, I had no clue about how I could be part of the action. So, after reading her newspaper, every day I would land up near the University's water tank, which served the community. I would spend hours under it, imagining that there could be spies who would come to poison the water and I had to watch for them. I would daydream about catching one and how the next day, I would be featured in the newspaper. Unfortunately for me, the spies at war ignored the sleepy town of Bhubaneswar and I never got a chance to catch one in action. Yet, that act unlocked my imagination.<br /><br /><br />'Imagination is everything. If we can imagine a future, we can create it, if we can create that future, others will live in it. That is the essence of success.' <br /><br />Over the next few years, my mother’s eyesight dimmed but in me she created a larger vision, a vision with which I continue to see the world and, I sense, through my eyes, she was seeing too. As the next few years unfolded, her vision deteriorated and she was operated for cataract. I remember, when she returned after her operation and she saw my face clearly for the first time, she was astonished. She said, “Oh my God, I did not know you were so fair”. I remain mighty pleased with that adulation even till date. Within weeks of getting her sight back, she developed a corneal ulcer and, overnight, became blind in both eyes. That was 1969. She died in 2002. In all those 32 years of living with blindness, she never complained about her fate even once. Curious to know what she saw with blind eyes, I asked her once if she sees darkness. She replied, “No, I do not see darkness. I only see light even with my eyes closed”. Until she was eighty years of age, she did her morning yoga everyday, swept her own room and washed her own clothes.<br /><br />To me, success is about the sense of independence; it is about not seeing the world but seeing the light.<br /><br />Over the many intervening years, I grew up, studied, joined the industry, and began to carve my life's own journey. I began my life as a clerk in a government office, went on to become a Management Trainee with the DCM group, and eventually found my life's calling with the IT industry when fourth-generation computers came to India in 1981. Life took me places - I worked with outstanding people, challenging assignments, and traveled all over the world. In 1992, while I was posted in the US, I learned that my father, living a retired life with my eldest brother, had suffered a third-degree burn injury and was admitted to the Safdarjung Hospital in Delhi. I flew back to attend to him - he remained for a few days in critical stage, bandaged from neck to toe. The Safdarjung Hospital is a cockroach-infested, dirty, inhuman place. The overworked, under-resourced sisters in the burn ward are both victims and perpetrators of dehumanized life at its worst. One morning, while attending to my father, I realized that the blood bottle was empty, and fearing that air would go into his vein, I asked the attending nurse to change it. She bluntly told me to do it myself. In that horrible theater of death, I was in pain and frustration, and anger. Finally, when she relented and came, my father opened his eyes and murmured to her, "Why have you not gone home yet?" Here was a man on his deathbed but more concerned about the overworked nurse than his own state. I was stunned at his stoic self. My father died the next day.</span></span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><br />'There I learned that there is no limit to how concerned you can be for another human being and what is the limit of inclusion you can create.'</span></span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><br />My father was a fervent believer in the British Raj. He sincerely doubted the capability of the post-independence Indian political parties to govern the country. To him, the lowering of the Union Jack was a sad event. My Mother was the exact opposite. When Subhash Bose quit the Indian National Congress and came to Dacca, my mother, then a schoolgirl, garlanded him. She learned to spin khadi and joined an underground movement that trained her in using daggers and swords. Consequently, our household saw diversity in the political outlook of the two. On major issues concerning the world, the Old Man and the Old Lady had differing opinions.</span></span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><br />'We learned the power of disagreements, of dialogue, and the essence of living with diversity in thinking.'<br /><br />Success is not about the ability to create a definitive dogmatic end state; it is about the unfolding of thought processes, of dialogue, and continuum. <br /><br /><br /></span><br /></span></p>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-131229601484432986.post-47708016095393858492021-12-27T23:57:00.004-08:002021-12-27T23:57:17.499-08:00 Friends Come In Every Shape & Size.<p><br />A lone elephant walked through the forest, looking for friends. She soon saw a monkey and proceeded to ask, ‘Can we be friends, monkey?’<br /><br />The monkey quickly replied, ‘You are big and can’t swing on trees like I do, so I cannot be your friend.’<br /><br />Defeated, the elephant continued to search when it stumbled across a rabbit. She proceeded to ask him, ‘Can we be friends, rabbit?’<br /><br />The rabbit looked at the elephant and replied, “You are too big to fit inside my burrow. You cannot be my friend.”<br /><br />Then, the elephant continued until she met a frog. She asked, “Will you be my friend, frog?”<br /><br />The frog replied, “You are too big and heavy; you cannot jump like me. I am sorry, but you can’t be my friend.”<br /><br />The elephant continued to ask the animals she met on her way, but always received the same reply. The following day, the elephant saw all the forest animals run in fear. She stopped a bear to ask what was happening and was told the tiger was attacking all the small animals.<br /><br />The elephant wanted to save the other animals, so she went to the tiger and said, “Please, sir, leave my friends alone. Do not eat them.”<br /><br />The tiger didn’t listen. He merely told the elephant to mind her own business.<br /><br />Seeing no other way, the elephant kicked the tiger and scared him away. Upon hearing of the brave tale, the other animals agreed, “You are just the right size to be our friend.”</p>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-131229601484432986.post-31950679456111002002021-12-26T23:43:00.002-08:002021-12-26T23:43:51.330-08:00The Oak and the Reeds<p><span style="font-family: arial;"> </span></p><p style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background: rgb(255, 255, 255) none repeat scroll 0% 0%; border: 0px none; color: #666666; font-size: 24px; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: 2px; line-height: 24pt; margin: 0px 0px 20px; outline: currentcolor none 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: left; text-decoration-color: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-indent: 50px; text-transform: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;"><span style="font-family: arial;">A Giant Oak stood near a brook in which grew some slender Reeds. When the wind blew, the great Oak stood proudly upright with its hundred arms uplifted to the sky. But the Reeds bowed low in the wind and sang a sad and mournful song.</span></p><p style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background: rgb(255, 255, 255) none repeat scroll 0% 0%; border: 0px none; color: #666666; font-size: 24px; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: 2px; line-height: 24pt; margin: 0px 0px 20px; outline: currentcolor none 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: left; text-decoration-color: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-indent: 50px; text-transform: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;"><span style="font-family: arial;">"You have reason to complain," said the Oak. "The slightest breeze that ruffles the surface of the water makes you bow your heads, while I, the mighty Oak, stand upright and firm before the howling tempest."</span></p><p style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background: rgb(255, 255, 255) none repeat scroll 0% 0%; border: 0px none; color: #666666; font-size: 24px; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: 2px; line-height: 24pt; margin: 0px 0px 20px; outline: currentcolor none 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: left; text-decoration-color: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-indent: 50px; text-transform: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;"><span style="font-family: arial;">"Do not worry about us," replied the Reeds. "The winds do not harm us. We bow before them and so we do not break. You, in all your pride and strength, have so far resisted their blows. But the end is coming."</span></p><p style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background: rgb(255, 255, 255) none repeat scroll 0% 0%; border: 0px none; color: #666666; font-size: 24px; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: 2px; line-height: 24pt; margin: 0px 0px 20px; outline: currentcolor none 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: left; text-decoration-color: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-indent: 50px; text-transform: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;"><span style="font-family: arial;">As the Reeds spoke a great hurricane rushed out of the north. The Oak stood proudly and fought against the storm, while the yielding Reeds bowed low. The wind redoubled in fury, and all at once the great tree fell, torn up by the roots, and lay among the pitying Reeds.</span></p><blockquote style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background: rgb(255, 255, 255) none repeat scroll 0% 0%; border: 0px none; color: #666666; font-size: 24px; font-style: italic; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 24pt; margin: 0px; outline: currentcolor none 0px; padding: 55px 0px 0px; quotes: none; text-align: center; text-decoration-color: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;"><span style="font-family: arial;">Better to yield when it is folly to resist, than to resist stubbornly and be destroyed.</span></blockquote>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-131229601484432986.post-17307448944570292382021-12-24T01:26:00.006-08:002021-12-24T01:26:53.162-08:00The North Wind & the Sun<h1 style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background: rgb(255, 255, 255) none repeat scroll 0% 0%; border: 0px none; color: #666666; font-size: 36px; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 36pt; margin: 0px 0px 1em; outline: currentcolor none 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: center; text-decoration-color: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;"><span style="font-family: arial;"></span></h1><p style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background: rgb(255, 255, 255) none repeat scroll 0% 0%; border: 0px none; color: #666666; font-size: 24px; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: 2px; line-height: 24pt; margin: 0px 0px 20px; outline: currentcolor none 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: left; text-decoration-color: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-indent: 50px; text-transform: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;"><span style="font-family: arial;">The North Wind and the Sun had a quarrel about which of them was the stronger. While they were disputing with much heat and bluster, a Traveler passed along the road wrapped in a cloak.</span></p><p style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background: rgb(255, 255, 255) none repeat scroll 0% 0%; border: 0px none; color: #666666; font-size: 24px; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: 2px; line-height: 24pt; margin: 0px 0px 20px; outline: currentcolor none 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: left; text-decoration-color: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-indent: 50px; text-transform: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;"><span style="font-family: arial;">"Let us agree," said the Sun, "that he is the stronger who can strip that Traveler of his cloak."</span></p><p style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background: rgb(255, 255, 255) none repeat scroll 0% 0%; border: 0px none; color: #666666; font-size: 24px; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: 2px; line-height: 24pt; margin: 0px 0px 20px; outline: currentcolor none 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: left; text-decoration-color: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-indent: 50px; text-transform: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;"><span style="font-family: arial;">"Very well," growled the North Wind, and at once sent a cold, howling blast against the Traveler.</span></p><p style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background: rgb(255, 255, 255) none repeat scroll 0% 0%; border: 0px none; color: #666666; font-size: 24px; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: 2px; line-height: 24pt; margin: 0px 0px 20px; outline: currentcolor none 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: left; text-decoration-color: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-indent: 50px; text-transform: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;"><span style="font-family: arial;">With the first gust of wind the ends of the cloak whipped about the Traveler's body. But he immediately wrapped it closely around him, and the harder the Wind blew, the tighter he held it to him. The North Wind tore angrily at the cloak, but all his efforts were in vain.</span></p><p style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background: rgb(255, 255, 255) none repeat scroll 0% 0%; border: 0px none; color: #666666; font-size: 24px; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: 2px; line-height: 24pt; margin: 0px 0px 20px; outline: currentcolor none 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: left; text-decoration-color: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-indent: 50px; text-transform: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;"><span style="font-family: arial;">Then the Sun began to shine. At first his beams were gentle, and in the pleasant warmth after the bitter cold of the North Wind, the Traveler unfastened his cloak and let it hang loosely from his shoulders. The Sun's rays grew warmer and warmer. The man took off his cap and mopped his brow. At last he became so heated that he pulled off his cloak, and, to escape the blazing sunshine, threw himself down in the welcome shade of a tree by the roadside.</span></p><blockquote style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background: rgb(255, 255, 255) none repeat scroll 0% 0%; border: 0px none; color: #666666; font-size: 24px; font-style: italic; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 24pt; margin: 0px; outline: currentcolor none 0px; padding: 55px 0px 0px; quotes: none; text-align: center; text-decoration-color: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;"><span style="font-family: arial;">Gentleness and kind persuasion win where force and bluster fail.</span></blockquote><p><span style="font-family: arial;"> </span></p>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0