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Heaven's will – fate, chance, luck, destiny

August 10, 2010

Aug
10

Emperor Zhenzong 23 December 968–23 March 1022

From the Slum-Long Poem to Emperor Zhenzong. (23 December 968–23 March 1022) (Image courtesy Wikimedia Commons)

Hello and welcome, this is Grace Mann from the SOH Network the home of Ancient Tales of Wisdom. Today’ story, titled “People are urged to Follow Their Fate” tells of how respecting the will of heaven, selflessly doing good deeds, and having a kind, steadfast and humble heart, will, in way and timing lead to good fortune, a great life and a destined future.

In divine culture, it is believed that a person’s fate is determined by heaven, and that a person needs to respect heaven and accept his or her own fate. Only if a person does good deeds and accumulates virtue, will he or she be rewarded with a good life. The famous official Lu Mengzheng was an honest and tolerant person. He dared to say what was on his mind, was tolerant of challengers, and had a broad understanding. In ancient times, he served as prime minister through three generations. He wrote an article entitled Slum Long-Poem that described many prominent instances and circumstances in history, in an effort to tell people that everything is determined by heaven.  He said that all one should do, was to do his best and follow the will of heaven. To be accepting of and harmonizing with the natural course of things, because fighting against everything or anyone to gain self interest cannot change anything. Lu Mengzheng used his long- poem to teach the then, young and arrogant prince. After reading the poem, the prince consciously righted his behaviour and became kind and humble. Then in time, this young prince later became Emperor Zhenzong.

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The will of a millionaire- the richness of morality

August 3, 2010

Aug
3

(Courtesy Loelle.Flickr)

”I agree with Hiada inheriting all of the assets of my father. I only propose that Hiada become my wife." Hiada thought briefly “……, I accept all the assets from the older generation, including his son.” (Courtesy Loelle/Flickr)

SOH, the home of Ancient Tales of Wisdom, brings stories that enrich the deepest and original centre of our being. This beautiful heart-touching story, also fulfils this quest. It encompasses the principles of honesty, kindness, strength of character and much more. It also reveals how the virtues of truthfulness and compassion, sincerity and integrity can open the widest door and bring forth life-long rewards, to both the rich and poor alike.

Hello again, this is Grace Mann, from the SOH Radio Network. In Ancient Tales of Wisdom, today I have a beautiful and heart warming story to share with you. So, for now, sit back relax and enjoy “The Will of a Millionaire.”

Many years ago on a bitterly cold winter night in Washington, D.C., a prominent businessman’s wife accidentally dropped her purse in a hospital. The businessman was extremely concerned when his wife returned home and told him, and immediately returned to the hospital in the hope of finding it.  The reason for his anxiousness was because the purse not only contained $100,000 in cash, but also a very confidential marketing document.

As the businessman hurried into the hospital, in the distance, he saw a very gaunt young girl squatting down in the hallway, trembling from the cold. He instantly stopped and walked toward the girl, as he got closer, could see the purse she was holding was identical to that of his wife’s.

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Two Artists – bring joy and beauty to the world

July 27, 2010

Jul
27

W.pediaCommons

At that moment, one famous artist disappeared from the world, while two happy artists with their hearts well-connected, worked harmoniously, to bring joy and beauty to all corners of the world. (Image courtesy Wikipedia Commons)

SOH’s Ancient Tales of Wisdom brings stories that enrich the core of our essential nature.  Today’s storyline reveals of how a life lived with conscious kindness and humility always wins the prize, be it in seen and unseen, or told and untold ways.

Welcome to the SOH Radio Network, the home of Ancient Tales of Wisdom. Hello again, this is Grace Mann. Today’s story from Ancient China is simply titled: Two Artists.

There was once an old artist who had two equally diligent and gifted students. He taught them everything he knew and, eventually, they became quite famous. They were Master Zhang and Master Ding.

After their teacher passed away, Master Zhang and Master Ding both wanted to explore their artistic futures. Before they parted, Master Zhang said, “Our teacher used to say that you and I are equal in our abilities. Why don’t we each bring our best piece back here after five years? Then we can take a look and decide who is better.”

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Chinese Architecture, a miniature of the cosmos

July 13, 2010

Jul
13

The Temple of Heaven, literally known as the Altar of Heaven, is a complex of Taoist buildings situated in the southeastern of Beijing.(Courtesy Ivan Walsh.Flickr)

The Temple of Heaven, literally known as the Altar of Heaven, is a complex of Taoist buildings situated in the southeastern region of Beijing.(Courtesy Ivan Walsh/Flickr)

Throughout ancient Chinese history, Taoism, Buddhism and Confucianism has aligned all things between the heavens, the earth and human beings. Our narrative today discusses how Chinese architects consciously and respectfully harmonized their buildings with the environment – and mankind with their world and the heavens.

This is Grace Mann.  Today in Ancient Tales of Wisdom, our storyline is a little different, and it tells of ancient China’s architecture and its correlation and harmony between the heavens and earth.  It is entitled Chinese Architecture, a Miniature of the Cosmos.

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Missing the opportunity

July 6, 2010

Jul
6

The food I ate from the board was actually very rare ginseng…those who ate it may have reached a high realm…and because you guys didn’t eat it, you may well have missed your destiny. (Courtesy Wikipedia Commons)

The food I ate from the board was actually very rare ginseng…those who ate it, may have reached a high realm…and because you guys didn’t eat it, you may well have missed your destiny! (Courtesy Wikipedia Commons)

Ancient Tales of Wisdom today reveals how encounters of any kind, can never really be perceived as being by chance, regardless of how or when they may be presented to us.  This story tells us how it pays to  remain conscious at all times and not allow those initial thoughts and perceptions we sometimes have, to lead us away from, and maybe miss, what could have been one of our destined opportunities.

Welcome back to the SOH Radio Network, the home of Ancient Tales of Wisdom. Hello everyone, I’m Grace Mann, it’s great to be back with you again.  Today’s tale is adapted from the writing ‘An Account of Meeting with Deities’ and it is entitled: Missing the Opportunity.

The Ten Friends of Weiyang were ten people who were wealthy and content with what they had. They weren’t interested in pursuing government positions neither were they greedy about their money. One thing that they liked to do was to get together and talk about metaphysics and Taoism. The ten friends were like brothers and were extremely close, so they often took turns hosting dinner parties.

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One's words and actions reveal our character

June 29, 2010

Jun
29

Courtesy kumon.fkr

The Chu people were very confused as to why their melons would grow so well - despite their lack of work. (Courtesy kumon/fkr)

Early culture from all lands embodies a wealth of rich folk-lores.  Again, today’s  simple but reflective idiom on Ancient Tales of Wisdom tells of a classic example  as to how simple acts of kindness, and  good deeds  given from a noble and righteous  heart will in way and time, always reward the selfless giver.

Greetings to you all, and welcome to today’s Ancient Tales of Wisdom. Hi, this is Grace Mann back with you to share more great words from the wise. Today story is about the happening that gave rise to the Ancient Chinese idiom entitled: “Irrigating the Neighbouring States Melon Fields.”

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True Beauty – a radiance of a virtuous inner spirit.

June 21, 2010

Jun
21

Courtesy -zhengjian.org

(Courtesy zhengjian.org)

Ancient Tales of Wisdom transports insights of sages from eras long gone. These gems, in their way and form bring forth genuine ‘food for thought’ that touches the most fundamental core of our being.  Again, this story is no different, it simply shares with us, how one’s heart and mind nature reveals our true beauty.

In our tale of wisdom today the author expounds on the difference between good looks and True Beauty.  Hello again everyone, this is Grace Mann from SOH Radio Network, the home of Ancient Tales of Wisdom. Our story today is simply titled: TRUE BEAUTY.

Long ago, the author visited a friend and they decided to watch a movie. The male character in the movie was a fine-looking young man. In the role he played, he was born into a very rich family and from a young age became accustomed to being arrogant and overbearing towards other people. During the movie my friend commented, “This boy is very handsome.” I frowned and said, “I don’t see him as handsome, because the character he is portraying is big-headed, superficial and unkind and for that reason I see him as unattractive.”

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To love children, educate them from early childhood

June 15, 2010

Jun
15

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To Love Children, Educate Them from Early Childhood. (Courtesy jimmiehomeschoolmom/Flickr)

SOH’s Ancient Tales of Wisdom brings stories that enrich the essence of our being.  Today’s narrative is based on the value, worth and necessity of consistent guidance and nurturing of children from a tender young age.   So too, it speaks about the interaction of love, kindness, respect and dignity between parents and their offspring. This story also expounds on results that can unfold when guidelines and the understanding of consequences is lacking in our loved ones education.   Ancient cultures from all lands have always placed great emphasis on educating their young from the cradle – in their varied and told ways.

Welcome again to Ancient Tales of Wisdom, this is Grace Mann.  Without any further ado let’s now go to our story: TO LOVE CHILDREN, EDUCATE THEM FROM EARLY CHILDHOOD.

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Ancient Tales of Wisdom brings you: The Importance of Etiquette – a story of kindness, respect and loyalty

May 27, 2010

May
27

kwan-yin2

Xiao Yixin toiled every day, without ever showing any trace of complaint.

SOH brings stories that enliven the deepest and most original parts of our heart. This story is no exception, built on virtue and the principles which allow us both grace within union, and the forbearance to strive through adversity in our lives. SOH would like to ask anyone out there who has ever wondered why marriage is so important, to take a seat, quieten your mind, and listen to this story of a woman showing the ancient beliefs that kept families together, men and woman in harmony, and people of the whole society achieving union and prosperity. Please enjoy this latest gift from Grace Mann.

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ANCIENT TALES OF WISDOM brings you wise words – "Know Thyself"

May 5, 2010

May
5

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Socrates 469-399BC (Courtesy gds/Flickr)

Hi this is Grace Mann, welcoming you back to Ancient Tales of Wisdom.  Today we have a tiny tale for you which tell of the Classical Greek philosopher, Socrates. This tale is titled: “Know Thyself.”

Socrate’s close friend Chaerephon once consulted God at the Oracle of Delphi and asked, “Is there any person in the world who is smarter than Socrates?”

God answers: No man is wiser than Socrates.

Chaerephon happily informed Socrates of God’s answer. But to Chaerephon’s surprise, Socrates  acted mystified and even felt uncomfortable.

Socrates did not believe that he was the wisest or the most intelligent person in the world. To disprove God’s conclusion, he decided to look for a person with more wisdom and a better standing than himself.

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Kind People Don’t Argue; People Who Argue Are Not Kind

April 13, 2010

Apr
13

130px-DaodeTianzun

In Lao Zi's classic text Dao De Jing it states, “Kind people don’t argue; people who argue are not kind.” (Photo courtesy Wikipedia Commons)

Greeting to you all, and welcome to today’s Ancient Tale of Wisdom. Hi, this is Grace Mann, back with you again to share another great storyline and it is titled: Kind People Don’t Argue; People Who Argue Are Not Kind

In the past, there was a gentleman who was acquainted with people who were eloquent and glib in their arguments. At that time, he believed it was their skill, and he didn’t give much thought about the relationship between eloquence, goodness and unrighteousness. Over time, this gentleman met a lot of other people who endured humiliation and they didn’t argue or fight back. It was then he came to realize the vast difference between these two types of people.

One day, when reading Lao Zi’s classic text Dao De Jing (Tao Te Ching), where it said, “Sages do things but not fight for things,” he again suddenly enlightened to the fact that clever talk and a conniving manner are not talents, and that humility is a higher realm of life.

In chapter 81 of Dao De Jing it states, “Kind people don’t argue; people who argue are not kind.” This chapter also goes on to say that: “Honest words may not be pleasant to listen to; and pleasant words may not be honest. Smart people may not have a wide vocabulary while those who are experienced and knowledgeable may not be smart.”

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One Yuan

April 7, 2010

Apr
7

439px-Yuan_collection

The tale of One Yuan - Our heart will not be at peace if we obtain something through improper means. (Courtesy Wikipedia Commons)

Hello everyone, this is Grace Mann welcoming you back to Ancient Tales of Wisdom, an SOH Radio Network initiative.  SOH takes great pride in bringing these wonderful stories, tales, and legends to you, our valued listeners. We trust that these fables inspire your hearts and minds as much as they do ours, and that they give rise to your every day.   The title of today’s tale is: One Yuan

As a child, I lived through the Great Cultural Revolution when there was only a few classes taught at school. Therefore, we spent most of our time playing or sitting on the side of the street. Girls would play a game where players performed complicated routines on a pair of long bands of rubber and those who could not perform the routine without making any mistakes were dropped out. This simple game was one of the most important activities of my childhood.

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For a debt of seven pennies

February 21, 2010

Feb
21

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The grandfather looked around and found himself sitting among several tombs. (Image courtesy laura padgett/Flickr)

Welcome back to the SOH Radio Network the home of Ancient Tales of Wisdom. Hello everyone, I’m Grace Mann, and it is my privilege to bring you the following factual story as told by a grandson of his grandfather’s experience.  This story is titled: For a Debt of Seven Pennies.

The author’s grandfather was a famous doctor in his hometown. One night, after receiving an urgent call from a villager, he took a ferry to see the patient. Because he arrived very early in the morning and did not want to bother the patient’s family, he decided to wait until a more reasonable hour before knocking at the door. In the darkness, he settled himself on the bank beside the river to take a nap. While resting, he overheard a conversation between two children.

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