A wise woman who was traveling in the mountains found a precious stone in a stream. The next day she met another traveler who was hungry, and the wise woman opened her bag to share her food. The hungry traveler saw the precious stone and asked the woman to give it to him. She did so without hesitation. The traveler left, rejoicing in his good fortune. He knew the stone was worth enough to give him security for a lifetime. But a few days later he came back to return the stone to the wise woman. “I’ve been thinking,” he said, “I know how valuable the stone is, but I give it back in the hope that you can give me something even more precious: Give me what you have within you that enabled you to give me the stone.”
I wanted to share this story because it really touched me. I was trying to think of a one word theme for class from this story and a couple of things came to my mind. Giving and detachment. This women was clearly a very giving women. Perhaps she was able to be so giving because she was practicing non attachment. She trusted in the flow and the abundance of the universe. What we give is returned to us in some kind of way. I don’t think she gave in hope of receiving anything back, but merely from the goodness and love in her heart. How does this story inspire you?
{ 4 comments… read them below or add one }
This is crazy – but I was freaking out this morning because I have to go in today for surgery to remove a kidney stone. I loved this story and it came at the perfect time. Thank you Tara.
Beth, that is crazy timing! I hope you feel well.
and Tara, thanks for this great story. Keep inspiring!
Hi Beth! Wow! I am so glad this was helpful.
I am sending you light and healing energy…
Such a great lesson to be learned!! Thanks for sharing and inspiring us all Tara!!!!! May we all continue to strive to be like this woman…