Cracked Pot

A water bearer in India had two large pots, each hung on the end of a pole that was carried across his neck. One of the pots had a crack in it, while the other was perfect and always delivered a full portion of water.

At the end of the long walk from the stream to the house, the cracked pot arrived only half full. For a full two years this went on. Of course, the perfect pot was proud of its accomplishments, perfect for which it was made.

The cracked pot was ashamed of its imperfection of not being able to deliver a full pot of water. After two years of what it perceived to be bitter failure, it spoke to the water bearer one day at the stream. "I am ashamed of myself and I want to apologize to you. I have been able to deliver only half the water because of the crack in my side. Because of my flaws you do not get full value from me," said the pot.

The bearer said to the pot, "Did you notice that there were flowers only on your side of the path, but not on the other pot's side? That's because I have always known of your flaw and I planted flower seeds on your side of the path and while we walk you water them. For two years I have been able to pick and enjoy these beautiful flowers.

Without you being just the way you are, there would not be the beauty to grace my house and my life."

Moral : Each of us has flaws. We're all cracked pots. But it's the cracks and flaws we each have that makes our lives together so interesting and rewarding. Take each person for what they are, and look for the good in them. There is better in most of us than bad. Remember to appreciate all the different people in your life. Bless all those cracked pots for what they are.

The Painting

Once upon a time there was a painter who had just completed his course. He took 3 days and painted beautiful scenery. He wanted people's opinion about his caliber and painting skills.

He put his creation at a busy street-crossing and just down below a board which read -"I have painted this piece. Since I'm new to this profession I might have committed some mistakes in my strokes etc. Please put a cross wherever you see a mistake."

While he came back in the evening to collect his painting he was completely shattered to see that whole canvass was filled with Xs (crosses) and some people had even written their comments on the painting.

Disheartened and broken completely he ran to his master's place and burst into tears.

This young artist was breathing heavily and master heard him saying “I’m useless and if this is what I have learnt to paint I'm not worth becoming a painter. People have rejected me completely. I feel like dying"

Master smiled and suggested "My Son, I will prove that you are a great artist and have learnt flawless painting. Do as I say without questioning it. It WILL work."

Young artist reluctantly agreed and two days later early morning he presented a replica of his earlier painting to his master. Master took that gracefully and smiled.

"Come with me." master said.

They reached the same street-square early morning and displayed the same painting exactly at the same place. Now master took out another board which read -"Gentlemen, I have painted this piece. Since I'm new to this profession I might have committed some mistakes in my strokes etc. I have put a box with colors and brushes just below. Please do a favour. If you see a mistake, kindly pick up the brush and correct it."

Master and disciple walked back home.

They both visited the place same evening. Young painter was surprised to see that actually there was not a single correction done so far. Next day again they visited and found painting remained untouched. They say the painting was kept there for a month for no correction came in!

Moral of the story:-

It is easier to criticize, butt difficult to improve. So don't get carried away or judge yourself by someone else’s criticism and feel depressed... Always put your heart into your work and do yourself a favor to keep yourself always inspired, since surrounding people are enough to do demotivating job....