The Wise Father's Gift: Embracing the Journey of Life
Ghazali bin Abdul Wahab
An educator interested in AI in education, positive psychology and professional teacher development | Training | Coaching for self-improvement | Learning and Development
Once upon a time, there was a wise man who understood the true essence of life. He possessed profound wisdom and was sought after for his advice. People admired him for his clarity of thought and the depth of his understanding. But there was one person who seemed immune to his teachings – his own son.
The passage of time brought about a change in the wise man. He began to worry about his son's future, realizing that he needed to impart a lesson that would guide him towards a purposeful life.
One day, the wise man summoned his son and spoke to him with a mix of concern and hope. He urged his son to embrace responsibility and discover the true meaning of life. In his hands, he placed a bag containing four sets of clothes, each tailored for a different season. The bag also held raw food, a small sum of money and a map.
"Find the treasure," the wise man said.
The son, filled with newfound enthusiasm, embarked on his adventure the next day. He traversed vast landscapes, crossing borders, oceans and mountains. Along the way, he encountered a tapestry of humanity. Some offered him kindness and sustenance, while others sought to deceive and harm him. It was a voyage that exposed him to the best and worst of human nature.
As the seasons changed, so did the scenery around him. Whenever the weather turned unpleasant, he took shelter and resumed his journey when conditions improved. He embraced the beauty of blooming flowers in spring and the dance of birds in the monsoon. He marveled at the golden hues of a sunset and cherished the tranquility of summer evenings.
Though his supplies dwindled, the son adapted and learned to survive. He hunted for food, stitched his clothes and sought shelter with ingenuity and resourcefulness. He discovered the wonders of nature and honed skills he never knew he possessed. He met many people along the way, some helped him while others received his assistance in return. Through these interactions, he learned the value of human connection and the beauty of selfless acts.
After several long years, the son returned home to his waiting father. With anticipation and a tinge of remorse, he confessed that he had not found the treasure his father had spoken of. Yet, to his surprise, his father's reaction was not one of disappointment or anger. Instead, he embraced his son warmly and inquired about his journey.
As the son shared his experiences, he realized the invaluable lessons he had learned along the way. His father explained that the treasure was never the ultimate goal; rather, it was the catalyst for self-discovery and growth. The wise man smiled, knowing that his son had grasped the true essence of life.
"My son," the wise man said, "life's purpose lies not in a singular destination, but in the countless moments, experiences and connections we encounter along the way. Life is a tapestry of experiences and its true treasure lies in fully immersing ourselves in each precious moment."
And so, dear reader, as you embark on your own voyage through life, remember the wisdom of the wise man and his son. Treasure the journey, for within its twists and turns lie countless treasures waiting to be discovered.