The Taste of Joy

The Student said, "teacher, you are always so joyful; it's a delight to be near you." The teacher smiled. "Thank you. Are you joyful too?" Grinning, the student replied, "Yes, I think so."

The teacher replied, "You think so. Why do you think you are?" "I have a nice comfortable home which is air-conditioned," the student replied, "with no mortgage, and it's in a good neighborhood."

"And . . .?" the teacher asked. "Let's see, my health is good," the student answered after a moment. "My job is secure with a good company that has a great health care plan." "And…?" asked the teacher.

"Let's see," said the student. "I also have a nice car, closets full of fashionable clothing, and enough money to take one or two vacation trips a year. So, yes, I think I'm joyful."

"And beyond your good fortune, have you ever tasted joy?" asked the teacher, blindsiding the student.

Anonymous

December 18, 2005