Sister Mahala was on a day hike by herself when she saw a young monk named Brother Polycarp at a distance coming her way. Known for his tempestuous spirit and propensity to complain, the other monks teased him from time to time by calling him Brother Carp. She stopped and watched his approach on the dirt path. Oblivious to her presence, he quickly drew near with his head down, kicking up dust, and grumbling loudly to himself.

“What’s the matter Brother Polycarp?” she asked, startling the young man who nearly knocked her down.

“Oh, it’s Brother Edmund, Sister.”

“Are you coming just now from seeing Brother Edmund?”

“Yes I am.”

“What about Brother Edmund has you so upset?”

“He always has to have the last word.”

“I see,” she said. “And what was his last word?”

“God be gracious to you,” said the monk, and then stomped off.

~ Dan Miller. All Rights Reserved. © 2019.

~ Friends, please consider passing THE ALMONF TREE refelctions on to others. Then, after considering it, please do so. Gratefully, Dan