(P) Again become a Mouse (gratitude)
In a small clearing deep in the forest a yogi sat, absorbed in meditation. Sitting on the ground with crossed legs and with closed eyes, the yogi was as still as a statue. He was appreciating the calm and peace surrounding him.
Without warning, a trembling mouse jumped onto the yogi’s lap. “Please save me. A black cat is chasing me.”, he squeaked,
The yogi slowly opened one eye then the other. He peered down at the mouse. “It is not my business to go chasing cats.”
“Please sir, please help me.” The mouse squeaked.
“All right,” the yogi said. “You can become a cat.” Then he waved his hand, cast a spell, and the mouse turned into a cat.
The cat then dashed away, back into the forest.
A few days later, the yogi was sitting, as always, in peaceful meditation. This time a cat crept from the bushes. It was miaowing pitifully, “Please save me! A ferocious dog is after me.”
The yogi looked up and replied, “I recognise you. You are the mouse I changed into a cat the other day.”
The cat miaowed louder.
“Well, well, what shall we do this time?” Then he cast another spell and transformed the cat into a big barking dog.
The dog ran off, into the jungle, and the yogi continued his mediation.
A couple of days later the dog returned, in a very distressed condition. He ran up to the yogi, panting and whimpering, “Please help me. A great tiger is chasing me.”
The kind yogi considered the plight of the terrified dog. He replied, “Oh you are such a fearful creature. Stop shaking. You too will be a tiger. Have no more fear.” With that he cast a spell and the dog turned into the most dangerous beast in the forest.
But this time, instead of going away, the tiger paced around proudly, admiring his new body. He licked his black and yellow striped coat with his long tongue, and with great satisfaction examined his razor-sharp claws.
When the yogi noticed the tiger eyeing him, he said, “So, tiger, what do you want now?”
With a sly smile, the tiger replied, “I want to eat you.” He flexed his muscles, ready to pounce.
The yogi was too quick for him. Pointing his finger, he cast another spell. “Ungrateful wretch! Again become a mouse!”