Margaret Silf - 100 Wisdom Stories from Around the World

For as long as human beings have pondered the meaning of their own lives and of the world they live in, it has been through storytelling that much of this exploration has happened. In stories, the natural human delight in narrative walks hand in hand with the equally powerful desire within us to make sense of ourselves.

The world abounds in wisdom stories. Some of these stories suggest explanations for who we are and how we came to be who we are. Others offer guidance on how to live, how to relate to each other and how to cope with lifes joys and crises. Almost all of them can be engaged with at different levels from the simple delight of a child at bedtime, to the probing of the adult mind and heart into the deepest mysteries of life.

This collection brings together some of the wisdom stories from around the world. They spring from many different cultures, yet they speak a universal language, and in many cases they reappear in slightly different guises in the oral traditions of many nations. The stories in this book are arranged in sections that focus on different aspects of the human search for truth and meaning: our sense of our own destiny; the treasure that is to be found in the minutiae of everyday living; the triumph of good over evil; the lasting values that determine how we live; warnings of the consequences of wrongdoing; illustrations of what it means to live true to the best within us; examples of patience and determination in the face of hardship; tales of sacrifice; and stories of what it means to be in right relationship with each other and with the whole of creation.

Stories, above all else, are there to be enjoyed . It is my hope that you will enjoy the stories in this collection, and that they will also lead you closer to who you truly are and what you most desire. May they serve as companions on your own journey of exploration into the meaning of human life, whether you make this journey mainly on your own or with like-minded companions, whether you are engaged simply in your personal journeying or guiding others young or old in the discovery of their own wisdom.

For this, ultimately, is the purpose of all stories to help us to discover our own story, and to live true to its wisdom.

Margaret Silf

There was once a beautiful woman who used to walk through the streets of the town, and everywhere she went she was noticed. Everyone in town wanted to talk to her, listen to her, ask her questions, and spend time with her. In the same town, there was a poor girl, dressed in rags. She too was very beautiful, but no one ever noticed her or wanted to have anything to do with her. She was lonely and sad. She would gaze at the beautiful, finely dressed woman and see how much attention everyone paid to her. And she wished so much that people would pay attention to her . She had so much in her heart that she wanted to share, but no one would listen.

So one day, the poor little girl in rags plucked up courage to speak to the beautiful lady in the fine clothes. Please, she said timidly, excuse me, but may I ask you a favour? The fine lady, who was a very kind person, turned around at once and smiled at the poor girl.

Of course, she replied. What can I do for you?

Well, ventured the poor girl, its like this: you are very beautiful and finely dressed, and everyone takes notice of you, but I am poor and have no fine clothes, and no one ever even notices me. It would make me so happy if, just for one day, I might hide myself inside your beautiful cloak and walk around with you through the town. Then, whenever people stopped to notice you, they would also be paying attention to me, and I think I have something important to tell them that they would value, if only they knew.

The fine, elegant lady readily agreed to the poor girls request, so the very next morning, she wrapped her fine cape around the poor girl, and they walked together through the town. Everywhere, as usual, people stopped to admire the fine lady, and when they did so, they also paid attention to the poor girl wrapped in the fine ladys clothing. As they walked, the fine lady talked with the poor girl. She asked all about her, and was very interested in everything she had to say. She discovered just how wise the poor, ragged girl actually was, and they quickly became the best of friends so much so that, after that day, they never wanted to be parted. To this day, they still walk through the world together.

And the name of the poor little girl in rags? She is called Truth. And her great friend in the beautiful clothes, whom everyone admires? Her name is Story.

Retelling of a traditional story

I wonder where the old frog goes, Geronimo the grub pondered one day. He swims to the top of the pond and disappears from sight till plop! There he is again.

Why dont you ask him yourself? suggested a minnow mischievously. For the frog didnt have much patience with young grubs. But Geronimo summoned up his courage.

Respected frog, sir, he began politely, if you please, sir, there is something I would like to ask you.

I dont please, replied the frog. But ask away, ask away, if you must.

Well, sir, Geronimo said very shyly, can you tell me what there is beyond this world?

Well, Ill tell you, replied the frog scornfully. There is dry land. Dry land with green grass and meadows filled with golden buttercups and sweet white daisies; and there are blue skies and dreamy white clouds and brilliant sunshine.

Wow! exclaimed Geronimo. He could not imagine a world beyond the dark pond waters. Dry land? he repeated wonderingly. Can you swim in it?

Of course not! chuckled the frog. Dry land is not water that is just what it is not! And he blew some bubbles to show his amusement.

Well, what is it then? Geronimo persisted.

You really are the most inquisitive creature I have ever come across. Since youre so eager to find out what lies above, Ill give you a ride upon my back and you can see for yourself, the frog offered, exasperated by all the questions.

Geronimo was delighted. He climbed onto the frogs back and up they went!

But the moment they reached the surface crash! He reeled back into the pond, gasping for breath. He clung to the stem of a water plant, trembling with shock and disappointment, until the frog joined him.

There is nothing beyond this pond but death, he wept. Why did you tell me all those stories about beautiful colours and bright light?