23-30TakeThe GoodWithTheBad

Once upon a time, there lived a hardworking farmer who eked out a modest living from his labor. One fateful day, his beloved horse disappeared without a trace. News of the farmer's misfortune spread among the neighbors and friends, and they expressed their sympathies for his loss. However, to everyone's surprise, the following day, the lost horse returned home accompanied by three other horses. The neighbors and relatives, witnessing the farmer's newfound abundance, wholeheartedly congratulated him on his stroke of luck. Yet, the farmer, with a calm demeanor, acknowledged the turn of events and quietly said to himself, "Let things be as they are." A week later, tragedy struck when the farmer's son, riding one of the horses, fell and broke his leg. The concerned neighbors approached the farmer, remarking, "You had a lucky break, and now you've encountered misfortune. It will take six months for your son to fully recover." Once again, the farmer embraced the unfortunate incident and uttered to himself, "Let it be." As time passed, news of a raging war shook the country, and the government declared a state of emergency. All eligible young men were drafted to join the war effort, including those from the farmer's town. The farmer's son, however, was spared due to his broken leg. The townspeople, recognizing the farmer's fortunate circumstance, praised and congratulated him. And the farmer, wise and composed, simply replied, "Let it be." Curiosity piqued within the community, as they wondered why the farmer maintained such equanimity in the face of every twist of fate. There had to be a reason. You see, the farmer possessed a deep understanding of the nature and flow of life. He recognized that there were no inherently good or bad days. Instead, each passing day quietly imparted mysterious lessons to those who were receptive. To the farmer, the dichotomy of good and bad was akin to the two sides of an honest coin. When one falls victim to misfortune, it should not be regarded as permanent. Likewise, in moments of great fortune, one should avoid excessive elation and refrain from losing oneself in the ebbs and flows of life. The farmer understood the interconnectedness of the good and the bad, acknowledging their inherent relationship. Through this wisdom, he found solace in accepting whatever life presented, allowing him to maintain an unwavering and even disposition.