This is Optimal Living Daily Episode 1000 and one,

my name is Ryan Nicodemus and I'm one half of the minimalists

and it is my pleasure to read for you this little Japanese folk tale

called The Stone Cutter.

The story goes like this.

There was once a stone cutter who was dissatisfied with herself

and with her position in life.

One day, she passed a wealthy merchant's house.

Through the open gateway, she saw many fine possessions

and important visitors.

How powerful that merchant must be, thought the stone cutter.

She became very envious and wished that she could be like the merchant.

To her great surprise, she suddenly became the merchant

and joined more luxuries and power than she had ever imagined.

But envied and detested by those less wealthy than herself.

Soon, a high official passed by, carried in a sedan,

accompanied by attendance and escorted by soldiers beating drums.

Everyone, no matter how wealthy,

had to bow low before the procession.

How powerful that official is, she thought.

I wish that I could be a high official.

Then she became the high official,

...