TZU CHI USA JOURNAL

There once was a farmer who lived a simple, carefree life. Every day he “patrolled” his fields. The farmer did not have much but lived freely and at ease. 

One day, when he was working in the fields, he dug up a statue. It was shiny and golden!

He took it to the goldsmith for appraisal.

“Congratulations!” the goldsmith said. “This is pure gold! Ancient statues like this are called arhats. They usually are made in a set of 18. They are worth millions if you can find the rest!”

The farmer was beside himself with joy. From then on, he labored day and night, and completely tore up his field.

All he could think of were the other 17 statues. Long forgotten was his carefree life watching over his fields. Those days seemed so far away. His desire for more golden statues left him unable to sleep or eat in peace.

If only the farmer could have been happy and content with one golden statue, he could have kept his carefree life. However, once he craved something, he could not stop pursuing it. Thus he became filled with endless afflictions.

The waters of a still lake can easily settle down after being disturbed. But cravings are like wild horses; difficult to rein in. Therefore, we must take good care of our minds. Being tranquil and clear is the most wonderful state of mind.