Three Patients

Three patients went to see a famous doctor at a faraway place. The doctor was not only well known for his professional competence, but also for his spiritual enlightenment, very affectionate nature, and warm hospitality. The patients traveled for many days and reached the doctor's place. The place itself looked so beautiful that they felt that they had arrived in a 'paradise'. The doctor was looking very handsome and saintly with his thick white hair and long white beard. He welcomed them with great love and warmth. They requested for his autographed photographs. After the check ups they returned to their houses. The first patient enlarged the doctor's photograph, framed it, and hung it in his drawing room. Many of his friends and relatives who visited his home saw the handsome old doctor's photo and requested for copies. Making copies of the photo and selling them turned out to be a profitable business for him! The second patient studied the prescription very carefully. He could remember every sentence and medicine quite well. He did a little study on medicine too. He began sharing his knowledge. Of course, he was happy with that. The third patient bought the medicines, took them as prescribed by the doctor, and became well. He went about doing his work and prospered from his own labour. He lived a happy and contented life with his wife and children. He did what little service he could for the needy fellow beings. In our religious life also we can see these three categories of people. One category is devoted to saints and miracle makers. They are busy with devotions, novenas, pilgrimages, feasts etc. The second category consists of 'experts'. They conduct Retreats, preach the Gospel, give talks, guide research studies etc. But their own lives are not transformed. The third category consists of those simple people who practice in their religions. They are who lead fulfilling own lives the values taught by the children of God and fruitful lives.