26/05/2024
A student questions his teacher: “I have read many books and I have forgotten most of them; but then what is the purpose of reading? "
The teacher did not respond at that time; however, after a few days, while he and the young student were sitting near a river, he told her that he was thirsty and asked her to bring him water with an old colander lying on the ground.
The student jumped because he knew it was a request without logic.
However, he could not contradict his master and, having taken the colander, he began to complete this absurd task.
Every time he dipped the colander into the river to bring a little water to his master, not a drop remained in the colander.
He tried and tried dozens of times, to no avail. Even though he tried to run faster from the bank to his master, the water continued to pass through all the holes in the sieve along the way.
Exhausted, he sat down next to the Master and said:
- I can't collect water with this strainer; forgive me, master, it is impossible and I have failed in my duties.
- No ! Says the smiling old man - you have not failed. Look at the colander: now it shines, it's clean, like new. The water, which seeps into its holes, has cleaned it.
- When you read books - continued the old Master, - you are like a sieve and books like river water.
It doesn't matter if you can't remember all the water they let flow inside you.
Books, through the ideas, emotions, and knowledge that they offer and convey, will cleanse your mind and your spirit.
Your readings will enhance you and make you a better person, with a renewed nature.
That’s the point of reading!
So read, read and read.
🙏
