After morning meditation, Sensei clapped twice and asked the monks:
I have hidden a Blue Jade Necklace inside a Jewel Box somewhere in the forest. Who will find it for me?
The monks looked at each other, puzzled.
Inquisitive Monk said, “Sensei, you will give us more information, correct?”
Sensei shook his head and did not say more. It meant that no more information was coming.
A few minutes later, Angry Monk growled and said, “Sensei, I think you have forgotten where you have hidden your box and you are tormenting us to find it!”
Sensei giggled when he heard this.
Humble Monk said, “Sensei, I will accept if you allow me only 3 months of my best effort. If I don’t find it, I will come back.”
Sensei did not approve.
Laughter Monk laughed and said, “Where is the forest? Sensei doesn’t even know that….”
Sensei laughed loudly and Laughter Monk laughed with him.
There was silence after this.
After a long period, Head Monk stepped forward, bowed to Sensei and said, “I will find the Jewel Box with the Blue Jade Necklace. I have only one request.”
Sensei nodded and asked, “Which is the forest you will look in?”
Head Monk said, “I don’t know.”
Sensei asked, “How big is the box?”
Head Monk said, “I don’t know.”
Sensei asked, “How will you open it if you find it?”
Head Monk said, “I don’t know.”
Sensei asked, “Does the Box even exist?”
Head Monk said, “I don’t know.”
Sensei face shone and he seemed very pleased. Sense said, “So what is your request?
Head Monk said, “That you bless me to find it…”
Sensei clapped three times. The monks noticed that he eyes were moist.
Sensei said, “The greatest treasures in the world are unknown and unseen. They exist because of faith, not because of proof. And to find them, you need grace not skill. Just to be told by someone you respect that there is a treasure – should be enough reason to find it…”
*****
