The Adventurer by Anthony de Mello

The story goes that in a small village lived an adventurer who grew restless within its confines and longed to explore the wider world. He eventually embarked on a long journey, venturing into uncharted territories and experiencing things no one in the village ever had. Years passed, and the villagers, assuming he was dead, were surprised when he eventually returned. 

The adventurer had changed physically, with his face tanned and hardened by the elements, and his limbs strong from his travels. But more importantly, he seemed more alive, possessing a depth and quality of being that deeply impressed the villagers. He recounted incredible tales of his adventures, the beautiful places he’d seen, and the extraordinary things he’d experienced. The villagers were enthralled and begged him to draw them a map of his journeys. 

Initially, the adventurer refused, urging them to embark on their own adventures and discover their own paths. However, faced with their persistence, he eventually drew them a map. Instead of using it as a guide for their own explorations, the villagers, filled with fascination but lacking courage, framed the map and hung it on the wall. They stayed in their familiar village, constantly retelling the adventurer's stories, stories they had never personally experienced. 

SOURCE: https://www.spiritualityandpractice.com/explorations/teachers/anthony-de-mello/quotes

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