When I was a child, I heard a folk story that has stayed with me ever since.
One day, King Yama summoned two little spirits and said to them:
“I will let you be reborn as humans. One of you will be someone who always has things to give to others. The other will be someone who often receives things from others. It’s up to you—choose the kind of person you wish to become.”
As soon as Ghost A heard this, he dropped to his knees, clasped his hands, and pleaded earnestly:
“Your Majesty Yama! I beg you—please let me be the one who can receive things from others!”
Ghost B stood quietly for a moment, thinking it over. Finally, he said:
“Since my companion wishes to be the one who receives, I will choose to be the one who gives to others.”
King Yama struck his desk with a resounding clap and pronounced his judgment:
“I decree that Ghost A will be reborn as a beggar, so he may always ask others for help. Ghost B will be reborn into a wealthy family, so he may frequently give and support those in need.”
The two little spirits were stunned into silence.
This story reveals a truth many people overlook: in our world, most would rather take from others, believing that giving is a kind of loss. Yet the modern Buddhist master, Master Hongyi, once said:
“I don’t know exactly what makes a noble person, but I believe someone who is willing to suffer a loss in all things surely is one. I don’t know exactly what makes a petty person, but someone who always seeks an advantage must be one.”
In reality, a person with a grateful heart who is willing to share joy with others will discover even greater joy—because they can find happiness in the happiness of others.
The spirit of Buddhism elevates the practice of giving and receiving to its highest form. H.H. Dorje Chang Buddha III made this profound vow:
“All karmic offenses and sins created by sentient beings, I will bear.
All the virtuous deeds and merits I have cultivated, I will give entirely to you.”
H.H. Dorje Chang Buddha III wishes to give all good things to sentient beings and to take upon Himself all their suffering and negativity.
Everything He thinks in His mind, speaks with His mouth, and does with His body is dedicated to one purpose: eradicating selfish attachment, relieving the suffering of all beings, bringing them happiness, and increasing their blessings and wisdom.
May our world be filled with kindness and peace. May all beings everywhere be safe, auspicious, and free from suffering.
Link:https://peacelilysite.com/2025/06/27/the-choice-between-giving-and-receiving/
Peace LiLy 