In a small village near a mountain, there lived a simple woodcutter named Liang who worked hard every day to support his family. Liang’s life was filled with the same routine—chopping wood, carrying it down the mountain, and selling it in the village market. Despite his hard work, he found little reward, which kept his mind restless, especially at night. His thoughts ran wild as he wondered why life seemed so difficult, making sleep elusive.
One evening, exhausted but unable to rest, Liang wandered into the forest. There, he came across a small shrine where he prayed for some peace from his endless thoughts.
At that moment, the Jade Emperor, ruler of the heavens, took notice of Liang's troubles and decided to help him. Appearing as an old man, he sat by the shrine and spoke gently to Liang. "What troubles you, young man?"
Liang sighed and shared his struggles. "Every day, I work and toil, yet I gain little, and my mind remains heavy. I cannot sleep for worry."
The old man nodded and offered him a drink of heavenly tea, saying, "Sleep tonight, and when you wake, the world may appear different."
Liang fell into a deep sleep. In his dream, he became a wealthy and respected noble, living in a grand house with servants and lavish meals. However, he noticed that despite his riches, he felt strangely restless. Every night, as he lay in his luxurious bed, he felt a longing he couldn’t identify, and sleep escaped him. He grew older, watching his wealth accumulate yet feeling empty and lost.
Suddenly, Liang woke, back in the forest by the shrine. The old man was gone, but a soft voice echoed in his mind: "Wealth and fortune can be burdens as much as blessings. Seek peace within, and your mind will find rest."
Returning home, Liang felt a change in his heart. He began to find joy in simple things: the morning light, the sounds of the forest, the smiles of his family. No longer worried about things beyond his control, Liang slept soundly each night, his heart content, and his mind at peace.
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