The following story is from the traditional of Zen Buddhism. Of all stories, this one has helped me keep troubles and disappointments in my life in perspective.

I hope it will serve you as well.

A very wealthy man visited a prophet and commissioned him to write something special about riches and prosperity for his family. What the man was looking for was words of wisdom or insight that he could pass down from generation to generation.

After taking the man’s money the prophet pulled out a large piece of paper and wrote:

Father dies

Son dies

Grandson dies

He then handed the paper to the man.
“What is this?” asked the rich man. “Is this some sort of a joke? I asked you to write me
something regarding prosperity and riches for my family to treasure and you write me this?”

The prophet then explained.

“If your son dies before you, you will be sad for the rest of your days.”

“If your grandson should die before you, you and your son will be heartbroken.”

“If your family dies, generation after generation, in the order I have written, your family is truly prosperous.”