“The Three Stone Cutters”

The first of three stone cutters was asked what he was doing. He replied, “What does it look like I’m doing? I’m cutting stones and I have to work overtime just to survive and feed my family because the pay is so low.”

When the second stone cutter was asked the same question, he answered, “By cutting these stones, I’m going to be able to earn enough money to add a new room to my house.”

The third stone cutter answered the question this way, “I’m cutting stones for the most beautiful cathedral ever built.”

The first man worked with resentment, the second man worked with purpose and the third man worked with inspiration. Though all three men are doing the same kind of work, they have three different mind-sets about why they are doing this work and what their efforts are going to create in their life. 

The power of your mind has many healing facets. Your thoughts probably match your current life condition. Consider the value and impact of a person’s mental attitude and the quality of life on can experience. 

-From “The power of storytelling: Stories impart wisdom, insights and self-esteem,” in Health Quest Vol. 13, No. 3, August 2011. By Patricia Armour.