Theme: Tuning

At the city’s entrance

A long time ago, at the entrance of a small town, there was an old man sitting under a tree. It was Mr. Jeremiah, who used to stay there observing nature and the people who passed by from time to time, and with him his grandson Josias, who played around him.

The grandfather noticed that a man was arriving, carrying a suitcase and a few other belongings. Arriving at the city’s entrance, the stranger was relieved to see that his walk was over. Seeking for information and also a few minutes of rest, he began to talk:

- Hi! I arrive with the intention of living in this city from now on. I come from a very bad place, where there were only evil people, a lot of work and few leisure opportunities. I won't miss anything or anyone there!

Old Jeremiah looked at him and replied:

- Welcome! It's good that you’re coming to live among us. Unfortunately, however, I must tell you that, probably, you will find here the same as in your hometown: unhappiness and tough people to deal with. But I wish you the best of luck and I hope that doesn't happen!

The man, after exchanging a few more words, took his things and continued on his way, as he still had to find a place to spend the first night.

Jeremiah and Josias stayed there, enjoying that calm and beautiful place where they liked to spend the afternoons.

It didn't take long and someone else approached. It was another man, who also arrived in the city, in the same conditions as the first. Spotting the old man, he started talking:

- Hi! I'm new to this city. I hope to be happy here. I come from a very good place, where I have family and dear friends, which I will miss. But I need a new job opportunity.

- Welcome! - Replied Jeremiah - I'm glad you're going to live here with us! Our city is very good. You will probably make good friends here and find a lot of satisfaction in your work.

The two talked for a few more minutes, then the newcomer thanked him and left.

Josias, who had overheard his grandfather's two conversations, asked confused:

- Grandpa, I’m confused. Is our city, after all, good or bad? Do evil or friendly people live here? Are happy or dissatisfied people? Why did you lie to one of the men, since you said different things to both?

- My grandson, I'll explain something to you - said the old man - Everywhere, there are good and bad things. There are good and bad people and opportunities. Each one finds what he is attuned to, that is, he finds the things that resemble what they think and the type of feeling they nurture. For a person to be happy, his internal world is more important than the external conditions he will encounter. That's why I didn't lie to any of them. Unless they change, they will have here the life they already had in their cities. Understood?

Josias thought for a moment and then nodded. Jeremiah smiled. They hugged each other warmly and went home.

Translation:
Larissa Martine - larissa_am@hotmail.com

marcelapradacontato@gmail.com