Once upon a time, there was a rich man who had four wives. He loved the fourth wife the most and gave her expensive gifts and treated her to the finest foods. He gave her nothing but the best.
He also loved the third wife very much and was proud of her. However, he always feared that one day she would leave him.
He also loved the second wife. She was always kind, considerate, and patient with him, and trusted her a lot. Whenever the man faced problem, he could ask her to help him get through the difficult times.
The man’s first wife was a very loyal partner and had played an important role in maintaining his wealth. However, the man did not love his first wife; although she loved him deeply, he hardly noticed her.
One day, the man fell ill, and he knew that he did not have much time to love.
Thus, he asked the fourth wife,” I have loved you the most, given you the finest gifts, and took great care of you. Now that I’m dying, will you follow me and keep me company?”
“No way!” answered the fourth wife and she walked away without another word. Her answer cut like a sharp knife right into the man’s heart.
The sad man asked the third wife, “I have loved you all my life. Now that I’m dying, will you follow me and keep me company?
“No!” answered the third wife. “Life is too good! When you die, I am going to marry again!” The man’s heart broke and turned cold.
He then asked the second wife. “I have always turned to you for help, and you’ve always been there for me. When I die, will you follow me and keep me company?”
“I’m sorry. I can’t help you out this time!” answered the second wife. “At the very most, I can only come with you to your grave.” Her answer came like a bolt of thunder, and the man was devastated.
Then a voice called out, “I’ll be with you and follow you no matter where you go.”
The man looked up, and there was his first wife. She was so skinny because he hadn’t treated her well. With great sadness the man said, “I should have taken better care of you when I had the chance!”
In truth, we all have four wives in our lives.
Our fourth wife is our body. No matter how much time we spend in making it look great, it’ll leave us when we die.
Our third wife is our possessions, status, and wealth. When we die, it will go to others.
Our second wife is our family and friends. No matter how much they have been there for us, the farthest they can stay with us is up the grave.
But our first wife is our soul. Often neglected in pursuit of wealth, power, and pleasure. It is our soul that will follow us wherever we go.
So strengthen and cherish your soul now! It is your greatest gift to offer world.
viva,volume2,number1.October & November2004,p20
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