Four humans entered a home that was constantly changing on the outside and inside. Once they got inside, they noticed a being there that kept changing and, at times, seemed to have no form at all. They decided the being was the caretaker. The being would not speak. However, none of them felt afraid. The first human was called West. The second was called East. The third was called Atheist. The fourth had no name. They knew they had all done good deeds, but wanted to improve themselves.

 

After some time learning about each other, the first three asked the fourth to pick one to two benefits and one to two drawbacks for each position. The fourth responded first to West: “The benefit of god being a creator being is that it helps you learn to demonstrate humility towards higher beings, other sentient beings, and nature. The drawback is that you may sometimes not question the teachings as much as you should.” Next, she responded to East: “The benefit of the mind can do anything is the opportunity to take a more active role in your growth. The drawback is failing to remember that it must operate in accord with your current plane of existence.” Lastly, they turned their attention to Atheist: “The benefit is that science can always help. The drawback is when there is not a sincere acknowledgement that spirituality is a necessary part of growth and transformation.” The fourth shared two drawbacks between them all: “Each position finds it difficult at times to accept that the action they took does not or will not lead to a good result. These moments can lead them to forget the importance of the bond between all sentient beings: as soon as we are born, we are susceptible to death.”

 

All four became silent, for none was sure which direction to take next. They turned to the caretaker for an answer. It responded: “Take a moment, then all of you share at once how you have helped each other. Maybe in that you will find your answer.” They paused for a moment, and then all said, “When we have been compassionate and accountable with each other while trying our best, we have productively fostered H.O.P.E. The right combination of all the paths in any given moment will always create a good outcome.” The caretaker smiled and said, “Well done. I am beginningless time.”