The Thief Who Became a Disciple

    One evening as Shichiri Kojun was reciting sutras a thief with a sharp sword entered, demanding wither his money or his life.

    Shichiri told him: “Do not disturb me. You can find the money in that drawer.” Then he resumed his recitation.

    A little while afterwards he stopped and called: “Don’t take it all. I need some to pay taxes with tomorrow.”

    The intruder gathered up most of the money and started to leave. “Thank a person when you receive a gift,” Shichiri added. The man thanked him and made off.

    A few days afterwards the fellow was caught and confessed, among others, the offense against Shichiri. When Shichiri was called as a witness he said: “This man is no thief, at least as far as I am concerned. I gave him the money and he thanked me for it.”

    After he had finished his prison term, the man went to Shichiri and became his disciple.

-END OF THE STORY-

    The thief understood from the master what it takes to be a man, despite what he has done to the contrary. Having been treated with respect and trust by the master, he followed in his footsteps. The master showed what it takes to respect, trust, and positively love other people. This is the optimistic mindset that we need to put into practice.

    I am delighted that the person made a favorable decision to alter his life and become a disciple. I've also found out that it is not an actual act of theft since the owner is there, and the owner even said that the item was in the drawer where it was found. It is somewhat humorous, but there are many valuable lessons to be learned. The money was not stolen but instead given to the thief.

    Shiciri's ability to remain calm in the face of such adversity is remarkable. In other words, he is a decent person who is capable of dealing with unexpected events. Shichiri is an excellent role model to emulate.

Source: 

• https://www.inspirationalstories.com/the-thief-who-became-a-disciple/