The Tree Fairy and the Geese: A Lesson in Respect

In a dense, peaceful forest, the Bodhisatta once took the form of a tree fairy, living within the branches of a grand tree. Two young geese often visited this forest, searching for food, and they would rest in the Bodhisatta’s tree as they made their way through the woods. The geese became friends with the tree fairy, and each day, they would converse with him about the deeper truths of life, reflecting on matters of religion and wisdom.

One day, as the geese perched on the tree, deep in their discussion, a jackal wandered by. Hearing the conversation, the jackal became curious and, thinking himself worthy of joining, called out to the geese below. He asked them to come down so they could talk together.

The geese, seeing the jackal below, were immediately repulsed. They flew off in disgust, leaving the jackal behind. The Bodhisatta, from his high perch, turned to the jackal and said, “The geese are noble creatures, worthy of conversation. You, however, are not. Your presence here is unwelcome. Go back to your den, where you belong.”

The jackal, feeling humiliated, slunk away, realizing that he had no place among such refined beings. The Bodhisatta, having witnessed this exchange, reflected on the value of maintaining the company of those who were wise and virtuous, while avoiding those who lacked manners and integrity.

In the Lifetime of the Buddha

In the time of the Buddha, this story was recounted to illustrate the importance of respect and decorum in social interactions. One day, Sariputta and Moggallana, two of the Buddha’s greatest disciples, were sitting together, discussing the Dharma. An elderly disciple, lacking proper manners, approached them without invitation and tried to join in their conversation.

The two respected elders, feeling discomforted by the intrusion, stood up and left without a word. The onlookers who had been listening to the conversation went to the Buddha, asking why the two great disciples had left so suddenly. The Buddha, understanding the situation, explained the past connection of the three individuals, telling them this story. He made it clear that just as the geese had felt repulsed by the jackal’s intrusion, so too had Sariputta and Moggallana been unwilling to engage with someone who lacked the proper respect and manners.

Moral of the Story

This story serves as a reminder about the importance of etiquette, respect, and wisdom in social exchanges. Just as the geese refused to converse with the jackal, one must be mindful of who we choose to engage with and ensure that our conversations and actions reflect the values of integrity and refinement.

The Moral

Choose your company carefully and respect the boundaries of wisdom, for not all are worthy of your time and attention.