ABSTRACT
This part of the book offers six “lessons” derived from stories of various character and origin. The nature of merit and the measurement of it is illuminated via the ancient Chinese story of a young scholar and his interaction first with the Imperial examination system, and second with the King of Death. Next, how to retire is examined, by turning to the parable of the land owner who decided he had more than sufficient means to retire – except that, as it turned out, he was to die that very night. The Zen koan of Sozan’s Tower provides insights into how much to pay a contractor. A very ancient “anti-work” reality is pondered by considering the biblical concept that work is a curse. Next, the puzzle of inequality of circumstances and opportunity at birth is examined from a number of angles taken by ancient writers. Finally, a Hasidic tale of the questions posed to a rabbi by a heavenly tribunal offers some guidance on humility at work.
