The Gratitude of Birds and Beasts
Published #75 | Winter 2024 Issue
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When we respect ourselves, we repay good deeds. When we give to others, we show our gratitude.
In the Buddha’s Sangha, a group of monks were discussing another monk who was always willing to serve others. He worked hard without complaint and fed the 500 other monks. He also kept the temple clean and tidy, so the monks could all focus on their practice.
The monks felt that this monk’s spirit was worthy of respect.
When the Buddha approached them, he asked, “What are you discussing?” They told him about the monk who served 500 others.
The Buddha listened, smiled, and said, “That monk also served diligently in his past life. His actions served all living beings.”
Then, the Buddha told them the monk’s story …
In his past life, that monk trained diligently in a mountain forest. There was a drought, so the streams were dry, and the birds and animals there had no water to drink. It was a matter of life and death. Using his wisdom, the monk went down the mountain to a faraway stream every day where he filled a hollow bamboo stalk with water for the animals to drink.
However, since he was always fetching water, he had little time to find food for himself. He grew weaker and weaker, but he still continued to serve the animals.
The animals were very grateful to the monk, but they were worried about his health. They met to discuss how they could repay him.
The king of the animals said, “We may not be very strong, but we can all do our part. Those who can climb trees can pick fruits, and others can forage for food on the ground.”
To show their gratitude, all the birds and beasts did their best to find food. The birds came back with small fruits in their beaks, the rabbits found radishes, the squirrels brought nuts, and the horses gathered tender leaves.
The monk was deeply moved by this. He realized that all living beings have Buddha-nature. Even birds and beasts are capable of expressing sincere gratitude. The Buddha then told the monks, “Charity is not only giving material goods; it is serving others with joy. That monk served many people, birds, and beasts with his sincere and loving heart. He has cultivated an excellent and outstanding character.”
