Practical Lesson

There once lived a great warrior. Although he was quite old, he was still 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 his opponent. Then he would make fun of them until they lost their concentration.

He would wait for his opponent to make the first move, thus revealing a weakness, and then he’d strike with merciless force and lightning speed. No one had ever lasted with him in a match beyond the first move.

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 spat in his face. For hours he verbally assaulted him with every curse and insult known to man.

But the old warrior merely stood there quietly.
Finally, the young warrior became exhausted.
Knowing he had been defeated, he left feeling ashamed.

A bit disappointed that they did not get a chance to see their master fight the insolent young man, the students approached him and asked:

- How were you able to endure so many insults and humiliations? How did you beat him without even moving?

- When someone brings you a gift and you do not accept it, who will the gift be returned to? -Replied the master.