There was once a great warrior. Though quite old, he was still able to defeat any opponent. His reputation spread far and wide throughout the country, and many students gathered to study under him. One day a young warrior of ill fame arrived in the village. He was determined to be the first person to defeat the great teacher. Along with his strength, he had the incredible ability to detect and exploit any weakness of an opponent. He would wait for his opponent to take the first step to reveal his weakness, and then strike mercilessly with lightning speed. No one ever lasted with him in a duel beyond the first move. Against the advice of his anxious disciples, the old master gladly accepted the young warrior’s challenge. When the two stood to fight, the young warrior began to hurl insults at the old master. He began to throw filth and spit in his face. For hours he verbally attacked him with every curse and insult known to man. But the old warrior just stood still and calm. Finally the young warrior became exhausted. Knowing he was defeated, he left, feeling ashamed. Somewhat disappointed that he had not fought the impudent young man, the disciples gathered around the old teacher and began to question him. “How could you endure such humiliation? How were you able to drive him away?” “If someone comes to give you a gift and you don’t receive it,” the teacher replied, “to whom does the gift belong?” Source: Zen Stories to Tell Your Neighbors
