The Parable of the Fisherman has many variations, but they all share the same messages. Good parables can have multiple lessons depending on where we are at each reading. What are yours today?
The Parable of the Fisherman and the Businessman
A fisherman was lying on a beach with his fishing pole propped up in the sand, his line cast into the sparkling surf. He was enjoying the warmth of the sun and the prospect of catching a fish.
A businessman, walking down the beach, trying to relieve the stress of his workday, noticed the fisherman and decided to find out why this man was fishing instead of working harder to make a living for his family. “You aren’t going to get ahead that way,” said the businessman. “You should be working rather than lying on the beach!”
The fisherman looked up at the businessman, smiled, and replied, “What will my reward be?”
“You can get bigger nets and catch more fish!” was the businessman’s answer. “Then what will my reward be?” asked the fisherman, still smiling.The businessman replied, “You will make money, buy a bigger boat, and catch more fish!”
“Then what will my reward be?” asked the fisherman again.
The businessman was getting slightly irritated. “You can hire people to work for you!”
“Then what will my reward be?” repeated the fisherman.
Now, the businessman was getting angry. “You can build up a fleet of fishing boats, sail worldwide, and let your employees catch fish for you!”
Once again, the fisherman asked, “Then what will my reward be?”
The businessman was red with rage and shouted at the fisherman, “Don’t you understand that you can become so rich that you will never have to work for your living again! You can spend the rest of your days on this beach, looking at the sunset. You won’t have a care in the world!”
The fisherman, still smiling, looked up and said, “What do you think I’m doing right now?”
What will be your reward?
You understand it is not the what; it is the why. Abundance is our birthright and being spiritual does not mean being without money. However, a spiritual life is also a balanced life.
No matter what you pursue, be clear about what you really want and ask if you are following the best path to your goals. Above all, find what brings you joy and make time for it now. Rejoice in the present as you pursue your vision for the future.
Image by Paul Brennan from Pixabay