Two Monks

Once there were two monks, Ong and Bak. Ong was older, and had a greying beard, whereas Bak, who was deaf, was still yet a child.

They wandered, as most monks do, searching through life for different experiences, but usually returned after these soul-searching journeys to their rundown little shack. Sometimes it was extremely hot during summer and provided lesser protection during winter, but it was home.

After a particularly hot summer, Ong decided that Bak should see more of the world. So he decided to take him on a pilgrimage
[Yeah, great idea. Take him on a pilgrimage. Every kid’s dream]
So they set off. Unfortunately, they got delayed at one of the cross roads, and since it was dark, they decided to set up camp.

Several days later, they reached the edge of their town. They were devastated to see it had been hit by a cyclone, a big one at that. Most of the streets were covered with receding flood water. They rushed back home. All that was left of their home was the living room and a part of the kitchen. Most of their food was swept away.

Ong got angry... very angry
[Yes, monks are also capable of getting angry]
Ong started screaming at God, “How could you? We paid homage, we believed in you and this is how you repay us?” he shouted. Bak, not used to seeing his usually tranquil master so worked up, got scared. But people were staring, so he had to do something.

He tapped his master’s shoulder and showed him a book he was reading. It read as follows:
"For each new morning, with its light
For rest and shelter of the night
For hearth and food
For love and friends
For everything thy goodness sends" - Ralph Waldo Emerson

Bak was telling him to be GRATEFUL. Grateful they had half a home, grateful that they had time till night to fix it, but most of all, grateful that they had each other.

Ong was in tears. How could Bak, his young apprentice be so wise? How could he forget to be grateful?

So they both collected wood and made a makeshift home to stay the night, and then slowly repaired the house.

Because, after you hit rock bottom, you can only move upwards, but while moving upwards, we should never forget to be grateful.

Gratitude in an important life skill and attribute you need to imbibe in your child. To ensure wholesome personality development of your child, make gratitude a priority in your home. This will benefit your child, as well as, getting a welcome boost in the happiness and well-being of the adults.

-By Zoe Nightshade, for SUPERBHUMANS
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