The Parable of the Crossroads

A man came to the crossroads and stood a moment. Behind him lay the way by which he had come. To the left, were many signs. To the right, many voices of instruction. Before him lay a path made firm and true.

He filled his hands;

he filled his mind;

yet, his feet did not move.

When the moment passed,he inclined his heart and set his feet forward.

As he walked, what he carried found its use.

What he had heard, guarded his way.

The path beneath him was made sure.

When another man came to the crossroads, he paused to watch and listen. But, neither from the signs on the left, nor in the unceasing voices on the right, would he find in them their use. The day bent toward evening, and the way behind him grew cold.