A wealthy novice came to a master, and said, "Teach me!"

The master said, "Scrub out all the wastebaskets."

The novice scrubbed out the wastebaskets and returned. The master did not give
a word of thanks, so much as a smile. "Now weed the garden."

The novice weeded the garden and returned. The master did not give a word of
thanks, so much as a smile. "Now give us your car."

The novice gave him his car, and then said in frustration, "Why haven't you
shown so much as a hint of gratitude? I have done menial service and given you
my own car. Isn't that a lot?"

The master said, "Yes, it is a lot, but we need neither your service nor your
car. You came to us proud and accustomed to luxury. We gave you an
opportunity to taste humble service. We gave you an opportunity to let go of a
cherished possession. It is you who should be grateful."