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Once in
ancient times a modest farmer had two sons. They told their father:
“Father,
we wish to travel the whole world and look for the means of subsistence
that will make us happy. We would like to give it a try. If we become
very poor, we will come back and follow your path,” and they left the
village.
Allah’s
grace made them meet a saint on the way. The saint said:
“Boys,
you are the sons of a generous farmer, ask of me whatever you wish to
have. It is my duty to fulfil it.”
The
more knowledgeable of the young boys, mounted on a farm horse said:
“May
Allah thank you, I did not come to this world to call out prayers and
wishes all day. I can work. I am mentally sound. If I am not worthy of
what I have, may I find what I’m worth.”
The
saint said in reply:
“May
Allah be with you, my son, go find your fortune.”
The
other young boy, who was riding on a mare, said:
“My
master, how lucky that I met you. I don’t want to spend my whole life
trying to earn just one loaf of bread. Give me wealth.”
“OK,
pass through this river, and you’ll find a cave in the mountains
there. You will see a grand gate to the cave. Open that gate and take
the treasure inside,” said the saint and gave him the key. “My
advice is that when you go to get the treasure, just don’t forget the
real thing.”
Obviously
the young boy did not listen to the advice of the saint, for he had
learned exactly where the treasure was. He
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