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Zen Stories
The Gift of Insults
There once lived a great warrior. Though quite old, he
still was able to defeat any challenger. His reputation extended far
and wide throughout the land and many students gathered to study
under him.
One day an infamous young warrior arrived at the village. He was
determined to be the first man to defeat the great master. Along
with his strength, he had an uncanny ability to spot and exploit any
weakness in an opponent. He would wait for his opponent to make the
first move, thus revealing a weakness, and then would strike with
merciless force and lightning speed. No one had ever lasted with him
in a match beyond the first move.
Much against the advice of his concerned students, the old master
gladly accepted the young warrior's challenge. As the two squared
off for battle, the young warrior began to hurl insults at the old
master. He threw dirt and spit in his face. For hours he verbally
assaulted him with every curse and insult known to mankind. But the
old warrior merely stood there motionless and calm. Finally, the
young warrior exhausted himself. Knowing he was defeated, he left
feeling shamed.
Somewhat disappointed that he did not fight the insolent youth,
the students gathered around the old master and questioned him.
"How could you endure such an indignity? How did you drive him
away?"
"If someone comes to give you a gift and you do not receive
it," the master replied, "to whom does the gift
belong?"
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