1

A Touching

Story

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Once upon a time two brothers who lived on adjoining

farms fell intoconflict. It was

the first serious quarrel in 40 years of farming side by

side, sharing machinery and

other things without trouble.

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It began with a small misunderstanding and it grew into a major difference,

and finally itexploded into an

exchange of bitter words followed by weeks of silence.

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One morning there was a knock on the older brother’s door. He

opened it to find a manwith a carpenter's

toolbox. "I'm looking for a few days work," he said.

"Perhaps you would have a few small jobs here and there. Could I help you?"

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CREEK

"Yes," said the older brother. "I do have a job for you. Look across the creek at that farm. That's my neighbor, in

fact, it's my younger brother. Last week there was a meadow between us and he took his bulldozer to the river levee and now there is a creek between us. Well, he may have done this to spite me, but I'll take revenge and go

him one better.”

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“See that pile of wooden planks by the barn?I want you to build me a fence -- an 8-foot fence --so I won't need to see him or his place anymore.

Two can play at a game.”

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The carpenter said, "I think I understand

the situation between you and

your brother…Show me the spot near the creek for

the main postand I'll be able to do

a job that pleases you."

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The older brother helped the carpenter get the materials ready for the construction of

the wooden fence.He had to leave for the town to get supplies and he told the carpenter he would be back

the following day.

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The carpenter worked real hard measuring, sawing, nailing.

The following day when the farmer returned, the carpenter had just finished his job.The farmer's eyes opened wide, his jaw

dropped when he saw what the carpenter had done.

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There was no fence there at all. It was a bridge...a bridge stretching from one side of the creek to

the other!A fine piece of work handrails and all.

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And the neighbor, his younger brother, was coming across, his hands outstretched . "You are quite a fellow to build this bridge after all I've said

and done," the younger brother said to his older brother.

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Tears welled up in the older brother’s eyes. His heart was choked with emotions. The

carpenter had taught him a most important LIFE lesson… FORGIVENESS.

The two brothers hugged each other warmly.

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They turned to see the carpenter carrying his toolbox and getting ready to leave.

"No, wait! Stay a few days. I've a lot of other projects for you,"

said the older brother.

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"I'd love to stay on," the carpenter said,

"but, I have many more bridges to build."

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Reflection In this world of Transience where Life is uncertain and

Death certain, let us learn to forgive and let go.

The heart will be then

lighter, more

peaceful and free.

With Metta,Bro. Oh Teik Bin

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The End

May we grow in Kindness, Love and Compassion!

With Metta,Bro. Oh Teik Bin