The Tale of the Two Parrots

A violent storm swept through a forest, tearing a nest from a tree. Inside were two baby parrots, brothers. The wind caught them and blew them in opposite directions.

One parrot landed near a village of violent bandits. The bandits took him in and kept him in their camp. Over the years, the parrot listened to their harsh words, their plans for robbery, and their cruel laughter.

The other parrot was blown far away, landing near a peaceful hermitage where gentle ascetics lived. The monks took him in. Over the years, this parrot listened to their soft chanting, their words of loving-kindness (Metta), and their deep philosophical discussions.

Years later, a King was hunting in the forest and became separated from his guards. Exhausted, he stopped to rest near the bandit village. Suddenly, a parrot shrieked from the trees, 'A stranger! He has rich clothes! Attack him! Kill him! Steal his jewels!'

Horrified, the King mounted his horse and fled for his life.

He rode until he reached a quiet hermitage. As he dismounted, a parrot with identical plumage flew down from a tree and spoke softly: 'Welcome, O King. You look tired. Please, rest in the shade. Drink some cool water. The monks will be here soon to offer you food.'

The King was astonished. He told the gentle parrot about the vicious bird he had encountered earlier.

The gentle parrot smiled. 'O King, that was my brother. We were born of the same parents, in the same nest. But he fell among violent thieves, and I fell among peaceful monks. The mind takes the shape of what it rests upon. We are the product of the company we keep.'