The Stonecutter’s Wish
Once upon a time, there was a stonecutter who spent his days chiseling rocks into useful shapes. Though his work was laborious, it was honest, and he earned enough to live comfortably. Yet, the stonecutter often gazed enviously at the wealthy merchant who lived in a grand mansion, thinking, “If only I were rich, I could live a happy and easy life.”
One day, while resting under the scorching sun, he expressed his desire aloud. To his astonishment, a divine voice replied, “Your wish is granted.” Instantly, the stonecutter found himself in the merchant’s luxurious home, wearing fine clothes and feasting on sumptuous meals.
Realizing the Sun’s Power
Days passed, and the stonecutter enjoyed his new life. But as he walked through his estate, the sun’s relentless heat made him uncomfortable. He envied the sun’s power, thinking, “The sun must be the most powerful force in the world. I wish I were the sun.”
To his amazement, his wish was granted. As the sun, he shone brightly, warming the earth and dominating the sky. But soon, a dark cloud blocked his rays. Frustrated, he wished to become a cloud, and his wish came true.
The Strength of the Mountain
As a cloud, he poured rain upon the land, nourishing crops and filling rivers. Yet, his joy was short-lived when he encountered a towering mountain that stood unyielding against his storm. Jealous of its strength, he wished to become a mountain.
Now a mighty mountain, the stonecutter felt invincible. But one day, he felt a sharp pain. Looking down, he saw a stonecutter chipping away at his rock face. Realizing the stonecutter’s ability to shape even the mighty mountain, he exclaimed, “I wish to be myself again.”
Finding Contentment
Once more a humble stonecutter, he returned to his simple life. This time, he worked with gratitude, appreciating his unique skills and the life he had. He understood that happiness does not come from power, wealth, or status, but from valuing what we already have.
Key Takeaways
- Happiness is found in appreciating what we have.
- Envy and dissatisfaction blind us to our blessings.
- True contentment comes from within, not external circumstances.
- Every role and contribution in life has its own value.
- Life’s journey often brings us back to the beginning, with newfound wisdom.
