Third Piece of Advice
Abhidevananda
to grab the bird, she spoke to him. "Oh hunter, you know that if you
kill me and eat me, I can only provide a few mouthfuls to one so big
and strong as you. In no time you will have forgotten me. But if you
spare me, then I shall give you three pieces of advice that will
benefit you for the rest of your life."
The hunter was open to the proposal, and it was arranged that the bird
would give the first piece of advice from within the net. If
satisfactory, the second piece of advice would be given from the branch
of a nearby tree. Again, if satisfactory, the third piece of advice
would be given from the safety of a distant hilltop.
Within the net, the bird declared: "My first piece of advice is never
to regret losing anything once it is gone." The hunter thought for a
moment and appreciated the wisdom of this maxim.
>From the nearby branch, the bird declared: "Never believe anything you
are told if it is illogical." Again, the hunter appreciated the wisdom
of the tiny bird's advice.
On reaching the hilltop, the bird laughed and cried out: "You foolish
man, in my belly there is a large diamond of immense value. Had you but
kept me, you would have been rich beyond imagination."
Immediately, the hunter began to lament his mistake. Could he recapture
the bird? No, that was not possible. Was there any way to recoup his
loss? After a few minutes, he remembered that the bird had not yet
given his third piece of advice. Looking up, the hunter requested the
bird to complete his instruction. But now that little bird only chirped
and flew away.