Chinese people often believe that one’s facial appearance is a reflection of their inner self. This belief holds true in a captivating story that serves as proof.
Once, there was a sculptor who had a penchant for following the latest trends in the art world. His specialty was creating statues portraying evil demons, ghosts, and monsters. However, as time passed, he noticed a gradual deterioration in his own facial features, which became increasingly ugly.
Concerned about his deteriorating appearance, the sculptor visited a hospital for an examination. Unfortunately, the doctors could not identify the cause of his condition.
One fortuitous day, the sculptor crossed paths with a highly skilled master of qigong, a traditional Chinese practice that harnesses energy for healing. This master exuded confidence as he proclaimed his ability to cure the sculptor’s illness. However, the master proposed a unique arrangement: the sculptor would repay him by sculpting one hundred Buddha statues.
The master further explained that the act of starting the sculpture work would initiate the healing process. Intrigued by this proposal, the artist agreed to the master’s terms.
The sculptor promptly halted all his ongoing projects and immersed himself in the construction of the Buddha statues.
Remarkably, as he diligently worked on the statues, the sculptor observed a gradual transformation in his own facial appearance.
Upon completing the one hundred Buddha statues, the sculptor not only regained his normal appearance but also found himself even more handsome than before.
When the sculptor presented the statues to the master, the master humbly stated, “It was not I who cured your illness; it was you.”