The Baby Quail Who Could Not Fly Away [The Power of Truth, Wholesomenessand Compassion] Once upon a time, the Enlightenment Being was born as a tiny quail. Although he had little feet and wings, he could not yet walk or fl y. His parents worked hard bringing food to the nest, feeding him from their beaks. In that part of the world, there were usually forest fires every year. So it happened that a fire began in that particular year. All the birds who were able, fl ew away at the first sign of smoke. As the fire spread, and got closer and closer to the nest of the baby quail, his parents remained with him. Finally the fire got so close, that they too had to fly away to save their lives. All the trees, big and small, were burning and crackling with a loud noise. The little one saw that everything was being destroyed by the fi re that raged out of control. He could do nothing to save himself. At that moment, his mind was overwhelmed by a feeling of helplessness. Then it occurred to him, My parents loved me very much. Unselfishly they built a nest for me, and then fed me without greed. When the fire came, they remained with me until the last moment. All the other birds who could, had flown away a long time before. So great was the loving-kindness of my parents, that they stayed and risked their lives, but still they were helpless to save me. Since they could not carry me, they were forced to fly away alone. I thank them, wherever they are, for loving me so. I hope with all my heart they will be safe and well and happy. |