PARABLE OF THE PENCIL
In the earlier days of space
research, a space research centre had to devise a method to enable astronauts
to write in the special conditions of outer space such as zero-gravity. A team
of scientists proposed an expensive project to develop special pens for use in
space. While the proposal was being presented before the staff, a young
scientist stood up and asked, “I have a humble suggestion. Instead of spending
such a large amount to develop a special pen, why don’t we try to use an
ordinary pencil?” The suggestion was received with great applause. Initial
trials proved that a pencil could work well in conditions of zero-gravity and
some early space travellers used it. Later, it was feared that the fine particles
of graphite from the eroding lead can conduct electricity and may adversely
affect the operation of delicate electronic control systems in the closed
conditions of a space-ship and so better substitutes were fabricated.
A great teacher gifted a pencil
to each of his students and asked them to list the lessons of life that they
could learn from a pencil. The major messages they presented were the
following:
1…Each pencil has a
definite purpose. It draws a line as it moves forward. This line becomes
specific letters, words, phrases, sentences and a finally, a unique presentation
with a meaningful message.
Every person is a special noble creation of
God with a particular purpose, role and mission in the world. By our life and
actions, we have to fulfil the intention of the Creator.
2…A pencil permits to
be held and guided by a hand to perform with perfection.
We must be ready to
be guided by the will, words and hands of God. We must be humble and ready to surrender
ourselves to the will of God. That is the only way to achieve great things in
life.
3…A pencil leaves a definite mark on the surface on which it moves.
By doing our duties with dedication, we must leave our mark on every
situation we are involved in and every person we interact with. That is the
mark of our Creator which He uses to change the world through each of us.
4…The most important
part of a pencil is its inside. The lead made of graphite is what enables it to
leave a mark on the surface on which it moves. The decorated outer wooden
portion may have visible beauty, but appearances can be deceptive. The quality
of the pencil is decided by the inner lead.
The eternal soul
within us is more important than the perishable body which houses it. The inner
beauty and virtue of a person cannot be judged by his external appearance.
5…A pencil is
used along with an eraser. Sometimes, the eraser is attached to the other end
of a pencil. Though a mark of correction may remain, the eraser enables
immediate correction of any mistake made.
We may make
mistakes in life as “to err is human”. But a noble man corrects his error at
the earliest. We must learn from our mistakes and proceed in pursuit of
perfection.
6…A pencil has to be
sharpened and polished frequently to serve its function with perfection.
Human life requires occasional
painful sharpening to achieve its goal. Sharpening of human life is through the
adversities and painful experiences man may have to endure in life. They lead
to physical, mental and spiritual strengthening and regeneration. Adversity is
the best university.
7…Applying too much
pressure on a pencil while writing can break the tip of the lead causing great
damage and hindrance to smooth writing.
Unnecessary stress
and strain from vaulting ambition may damage our life and progress. When we are
ready to accept the will of God, life becomes steady, pleasant and enjoyable.
St. Mother Teresa of Kolkata said, “We are all pencils in the hand of God.”
St. Mother Teresa of Kolkata said, “We are all pencils in the hand of God.”
…………………………………………………………………….
©
By: Prof. Dr. Babu Philip, Former Professor, Cochin University
of Science & Technology, Fine Arts Avenue, Kochi-682016, Kerala,
India, Prof. Mrs. Rajamma Babu, Former Professor, St.
Dominic's College, Kanjirappally, Leo. S. John and Neil
John, Alfeen Public
School, Kanjirappally, Kerala, India. For more moral
stories, parables and anecdotes for students, catechists, teachers and
preachers, kindly visit our web-sites:
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