The Gift of Insults
====

There once lived a great warrior. Though quite old, he still
was able to defeat any challenger. His reputation extended
far and wide throughout the land and many students gathered
to study under him.

One day an infamous young warrior arrived at the village. He
was determined to be the first man to defeat the great
master. Along with his strength, he had an uncanny ability
to spot and exploit any weakness in an opponent. He would
wait for his opponent to make the first move, thus revealing
a weakness, and then would strike with merciless force and
lightning speed. No one had ever lasted with him in a match
beyond the first move.

Much against the advice of his concerned students, the old
master gladly accepted the young warrior's challenge. As the
two squared off for battle, the young warrior began to hurl
insults at the old master. He threw dirt and spit in his
face. For hours he verbally assaulted him with every curse
and insult known to mankind. But the old warrior merely
stood there motionless and calm.  Finally, the young warrior
exhausted himself. Knowing he was defeated, he left feeling
shamed.

Somewhat disappointed that he did not fight the insolent
youth, the students gathered around the old master and
questioned him. "How could you endure such an indignity? How
did you drive him away?"

"If someone comes to give you a gift and you do not receive
it," the master replied, "to whom does the gift belong?"
