The Most Beautiful Wisdom
Here is a story that embodies profound wisdom:
Once there was an elderly man who complained of pain and fatigue at the end of each day. A friend inquired, “What causes all this pain you are experiencing?” The elderly man responded, “I have two falcons that I must train every day, and I also have two rabbits that I need to guard to prevent them from running away.”
He continued, “In addition to the falcons, I need to train them, and I have a snake that I must contain. There’s also a lion that I keep always confined in a metal cage, and I have a sick individual for whom I must provide care.” His friend expressed disbelief, saying, “This can’t be true; surely no one can manage all these responsibilities at once.” The elderly man clarified, “I am not joking; what I am telling you is a sad reality.”
Explanation of the Symbols
The two falcons represent my eyes, and I must discipline them to avoid looking at what is forbidden with diligence and care. The two rabbits symbolize my legs, which I must protect from walking down paths of sin. The two falcons signify my hands, and I must train them to work in order to meet my needs and those of my fellow brothers.
The snake represents my tongue, which I must constantly restrain to ensure it does not utter shameful or disgraceful words. The lion symbolizes my heart, with which I engage in a continuous battle, and I must keep it restrained to prevent evil thoughts from emerging. Finally, the sick man represents my entire body, which requires my constant vigilance, attention, and care. This daily responsibility exhausts my energy.
The Lesson Learned
One of the greatest achievements in life is to master oneself and not allow anyone in your surroundings to control you. Do not allow any of your whims, weaknesses, or desires to overpower you. There is nothing greater than fulfilling the purpose for which God created you, which is to be the master of yourself.
Some of the Most Beautiful Short Proverbs
Here are some notable sayings:
- The defeated, when he smiles, robs the victor of the joy of winning.
- Befriend wolves, but keep your axe ready.
- A long tongue indicates a short hand.
- Every word has an ear; perhaps your ear is not tuned to my words, so do not accuse me of ambiguity.
- Being a member of a pride of lions is better than being the leader of ostriches.
- Some great individuals make you feel small in their presence, but the truly great person is one who makes everyone feel they are important.
- Do not argue with a fool, for people may not distinguish between you.