
09/03/2025
Chapter 4: Jealousy vs. Envy
In a magical kingdom far away, a wise king summoned Jealousy and Envy. He was tired of the harm they caused and wanted to teach them how to find happiness in others' joy rather than misery in comparison.
When they arrived, the king made them an extraordinary offer. “I will grant each of you one wish,” he said. “You may ask for anything your heart desires, and if it is within my power, it shall be yours. However, whatever you wish for, the other will receive double.”
After a long, tense silence Envy said, “Oh King, I wish for you to pluck out one of my eyes.”
This is the true, destructive nature of Jealousy and Envy. They cannot bear to see anyone else have more. They poison everything they touch, turning even a blessing into a curse.
They would rather harm themselves, than do something positive if it prevents others from getting something better than them.
These two forces can never be satisfied. They are never grateful, always hungry to take from others, and in the process, they destroy themselves. The king’s offer could have given them anything—wealth, health, happiness—but their hatred for the other’s success was too much to bear.
Let this be a warning: never allow Jealousy or Envy to take root in your heart. They will turn it into a wasteland. Celebrate your own blessings, no matter how small, and take joy in the success of others. Gratitude and generosity will make your heart flourish.
The only reason we should look at a neighbor’s bowl is to make sure they have enough
Parables: Stories to Help Navigate This World https://a.co/d/2eDuFOC
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This is a collection of short stories that have made a significant impact on my life.