Theos-Talk Archives (August 1998 Message tt00192)

The Gift of Insults

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 There once lived a great warrior. Though quite old, he still was able to
defeat any challenger. His reputation extended far and wide throughout the
land and many students gathered to study under him.
One day an infamous young warrior arrived at the village. He was determined
to be the first man to defeat the great master. Along with his strength, he
had an uncanny ability to spot and exploit any weakness in an opponent. He
would wait for his opponent to make the first move, thus revealing a
weakness, and then would strike with merciless force and lightning speed.
No one had ever lasted with him in a match beyond the first move.

Much against the advice of his concerned students, the old master gladly
accepted the young warrior's challenge. As the two squared off for battle,
the young warrior began to hurl insults at the old master. He threw dirt
and spit in his face. For hours he verbally assaulted him with every curse
and insult known to mankind. But the old warrior merely stood there
motionless and calm. Finally, the young warrior exhausted himself. Knowing
he was defeated, he left feeling shamed.

Somewhat disappointed that he did not fight the insolent youth, the
students gathered around the old master and questioned him. "How could you
endure such an indignity? How did you drive him away?"

"If someone comes to give you a gift and you do not receive it," the master
replied, "to whom does the gift belong?"

http://www1.rider.edu/~suler/zenstory/zenstory.html