The Philosopher’s Name
There once was a philosopher who made an appointment to debate with a famous wise man and teacher. When the philosopher knocked on the wise man’s door at the hour agreed upon for the debate no one answered. The philosopher knocked again but there was still no answer for the wise man had forgotten their plan and was at the pub throwing darts and telling stories with his friends.
After waiting for a long time the philosopher was angry. Picking up a piece of chalk he wrote “Idiot” on the door and left in a huff.
As soon as the wise man returned home and saw his door he ran to the philosopher’s house.
“I am so sorry I forgot our appointment,” said the wise man. “I apologize for not being home. Of course I recalled our meeting as soon as I saw that you had left your name on my door.”
Adapted from Doorways to the Soul. 52 Wisdom Tales From Around the World, by Elisa Davy Pearmain