In the tapestry of life, each thread is a story rich with lessons and insights. This collection of stories and anecdotes offers a glimpse into the diverse ways individuals confront challenges, seize opportunities, and navigate the complexities of life. They weave together themes of courage, resilience, and the importance of perspective. As you explore these varied life experiences, you will uncover valuable lessons that transcend time and circumstance, providing guidance and inspiration for your personal journey.
Six words to live by
Thirty years ago, a young man left his hometown to forge his future. His first stop was a visit to the tribal elder of his people, seeking guidance. The elder, engrossed in calligraphy, upon learning that a young member of the tribe was embarking on life’s journey, wrote three words: “Do not fear.”
Looking up, he said to the young man: “Child, the secret of life is just six words. Today, I give you three to help you for half your life.” Thirty years later, the young man, now middle-aged with his share of achievements and sorrows, returned to his homeland and visited the elder.
Arriving at the elder’s house, he learned that the elder had passed away years before. The family handed him a sealed envelope, saying: “This was left for you by the elder; he knew you would return one day.” Remembering the half-secret of life he received 30 years earlier, he opened the envelope to find three more words: “Do not regret.”
For past events, you need not regret; you must move forward, for time waits for no one.
A driver’s test
A large company was hiring a driver and offering a handsome salary. Only three highly skilled candidates remained after several rounds of screening and tests. The examiner asked them: “There’s gold by a cliff. How close could you drive to the edge without falling off?”
“Three feet,” said the first. “A foot and a half,” confidently stated the second. “I would stay as far away from the cliff as possible,” said the third. The company hired the third candidate.
Avoiding danger is wiser than flirting with it, even if there’s a tempting reward. Fixed mindsets can lead to missed opportunities.
Life lessons for lions and gazelles
Every day, as the sun rises over the African savannas, the animals start their race for survival.
A lioness teaches her cubs: “You must run faster, even faster. If you can’t outrun the slowest gazelle, you will starve.”
Meanwhile, a gazelle mother advises her young: “You must run faster, even faster. You will be caught if you can’t be quicker than the fastest lion.”
Remember, as fast as you run, others will run faster. Know yourself and your competition.
Rejected 1,855 times
Years ago, the now-famous American movie star Sylvester Stallone was down on his luck, with only US$100 to his name and no home, forced to sleep in his car. Determined to become an actor, he confidently applied to every film company in New York.
Rejected by all 500 companies for his average looks and slurred speech, he wrote the screenplay for Rocky and persisted despite ridicule and setbacks, facing 1,855 rejections.
Finally, he met a producer willing to make Rocky, but on the condition that Stallone wouldn’t act in it. Stallone’s perseverance paid off, and he was eventually cast in the lead role.
Can you face 1,855 rejections and not give up? Stallone did, achieving what others couldn’t, which led to his success.
Translated by cecilia
