A PARABLE: "A farmer had two fields; one was lush and fertile, the other dry with parched crops. Between the two fields stood a magnificent bamboo tree.

With deep respect for the bamboo tree, the farmer approached it one day, saying, "I'd like to use you." The bamboo tree, swelling with pride, replied that it would be honored to help the field owner in any way it could. Then the farmer revealed, "To use you, I must cut you down."