The Newcomer

Quintu was on his way to greet the “so called” Monk from America.  This monk’s order is hardly what Quintu would call a proper order, but here he was seeking wisdom and knowledge from us.  As Quintu approached the group he saw Elder Eidard, our leader, Master Ulthane, Master Oron, and the newcomer.

Master Ulthane had previously made clear his disdain for foreigners, let alone those who claimed to be on a journey seeking enlightenment.  “Bah, these pretenders do not know the disciple or humility to be a monk.”

Master Oron, remained open minded.

As for Elder Eidard, well he was stoic and contemplative as always.

The newcomer, in a tone of sincere humility, was asking, are not all mankind potential seekers of enlightenment?  Are we not here to help enlighten each other?  I do not see enlightenment as exclusive.  Master Ulthane have you ever contemplated rain on the fields?

It was here the newcomer began to describe in vivid detail the dark clouds rolling in from over the hills.  He described the feel of the air, the change in temperature.  How the daylight fades to shades of gray, the crackle and flash of lightning racing across the sky.  The dark streaks below the clouds that show the rain falling on crops. The peaceful sound of rain, and the cool humid sweet sent in the air of rain on the fields.  Would you deny that moment of wonder and enlightenment to another?

Master Ulthane huffed, Bah! Then he walked away.

Elder Eidard was in deep thought and a slight smile was on his face.

But when I looked to Oron his face was in amazed wonder.  Oron with a reverent whisper said, “I can smell the rain.” He gently shook his head, “There is not a cloud in the sky, but I can smell the rain.”