The other way to defeat

A Zen master noticed a commotion amongst his disciples and asked them what happened.

"He has stolen again," they said and pushed a disciple forward to face the master. The master said, "Forgive him."

"No way. We have forgiven him many times for your sake. Now if you don't send him out, all of us are going to leave," the disciples threatened.

"I have no intention of sending him away even if all of you leave," said the master.

The disciple who had committed the crime fell at the master's feet and broke down into tears.

 A human being may have the strength to face any kind of punishment given to him, but he will be defeated by immense compassion.

(as I was told by a Zen master)

Reviews

[barleygirl]

This story is related in perfect brevity. I spent 5 times longer thinking about your msg than I did reading it. At the lowest point in my life, I was learning to walk again after devastating neck surgery (6 yrs ago). I was mostly on my own, fighting this long battle in the wilderness where I live, but once in a while I was graced with such kindness & many times from strangers. Unable to respond, I could only sob. There are many other examples anyone could draw from real life to relate to your words here! (((HUGS))) Fondly, Margie

[Tom Perrin]

Only the offender can repent, but they must be given the chance. Beautiful message.

[Lydia Shutter]

How true this is! Lydi**

[augustus]

It isn't easy to forgive an offender. No matter what the crime!