The first man, shoulders hunched and eyes scanning the unfamiliar landscape, pauses at the worn steps of the Zen master’s dwelling. He clutches a faded travel bag, its seams stretched from many restless journeys. Inside, the gentle sound of wind chimes mingles with a distant bird’s song.
"Excuse me, Master. I’m considering moving to this town. Could you tell me what it is like?"
The Zen master, robed in simple linen and radiating calm, studies the first man with kind, discerning eyes. The stillness in the room sharpens the edge in the first man’s voice as he waits for an answer.
"What was your old town like?"
"It was dreadful. Everyone was hateful. I hated it," he replies, bitterness coloring his words, his gaze fixed on the floor.
"This town is very much the same. I don’t think you should move here," the master murmurs, voice gentle yet firm.
the first man’s[/@ch_1] departure. The sunlight is brighter now, scattering dappled shadows across winding stone paths. A soft wind picks up, rustling the bamboo as the man walks away, disappointment etched in every step.]
He mutters under his breath, shoulders sagging even further as he disappears down the lane. The garden gate swings quietly behind him, returning the world to stillness. Only the footsteps of the next visitor break the calm.
the second man[/@ch_3], approaches with a hopeful air. His eyes are warm, his stride confident. He pauses at the same threshold, pausing to admire the simplicity of the garden and the gentle play of sunlight on the pond.]
Entering the study, the second man bows respectfully to the Zen master. His presence seems to brighten the already sunlit room.
"Good morning, Master. I’m thinking of moving to this town. May I ask what it is like?"
the second man[/@ch_3] with the same steady gaze, hands folded serenely in his lap. Outside, the wind carries the sound of distant laughter from children playing in the street.]
"What was your old town like?"
"It was wonderful. Everyone was friendly and I was happy. I’m simply interested in a change now," he replies, a fond smile touching his lips as he recalls his memories.
"This town is very much the same. I think you will like it here," the master says, his words like the gentle ripple of wind across the pond.
the second man[/@ch_3] wander through the garden, curiosity and peace mingling in his expression.]
The lesson lingers in the air like the scent of blossoms: the world is often a reflection of what we bring to it. In the gentle hush of the garden, the Zen master smiles, content with the wisdom quietly sown.
