There is an interesting parable in Vietnamese Buddhist culture. The story says there is a pig, a sheep, and a dairy cow locked in a barn. One time, the owner caught the pig, and the pig screamed and resisted fiercely. The sheep and dairy cows did not like the pig's squealing, so they angrily criticized: "You are overdoing it. Whenever the boss comes to arrest us, we don't squeal as loudly as you do." After listening, the pig immediately responded: "Arresting you and arresting me are two completely different things. The boss arrested you just to take your fur and milk, but he arrested me to take my life, do you understand? After hearing this, the sheep and dairy cows were silent and could not say a word.
This story, although short, is very profound. It reminds us that people with different stances and thoughts, in various positions and circumstances, will find it very difficult to understand the other person. If we can stand from another person's perspective to look at the problem, we can understand others from deep within ourselves and have the ability to forgive opposing thoughts. The story also reminds us of the importance of understanding and empathy for others. According to the Buddhist explanation, even if people behave differently than you, you should forgive with love and compassion to have a peaceful inner life.
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