You have a choice of a single nightingale’s feather that represents a life of simple beauty or a golden cage that represents a life of gilded captivity, which do you choose?
- I’ll take the feather, sometimes simple beauty is the most captivating kind.
- I’ll choose freedom over luxury any day, even if it means giving up the gold.
- The cage will offer more long-term security, I’ll choose the cage.
- The possibilities of what I could catch with that cage seem intriguing.
You are at a party and someone starts talking about the latest lavish wedding they attended. How do you steer the conversation?
- I ask if they’ve heard any news about the famine in the next town over, maybe we can pool some resources to send aid.
- I make a joke about how much I love cake and hope everyone laughs along with me.
- I tell a funny story about a time I attended a wedding that went hilariously wrong.
- I excuse myself to get another drink and hope someone else changes the subject.
If you could wave a magic wand and create the perfect garden, what would it look like?
- It would be bursting with life, not just flowers, but birds, insects, and small animals living in harmony.
- I’d plant fruit trees in the garden that would feed the whole village.
- It would be a quiet, contemplative space with the sound of a bubbling fountain and the sweet scent of jasmine in the air.
- Definitely something low maintenance, I’d plant some cacti and succulents and call it a day.
What is your absolute favorite meal to enjoy in a beautiful garden?
- Freshly baked bread, cheese, fruit, and wine, all locally sourced of course.
- Whatever I can forage from the garden itself, nature provides everything we need.
- Honestly, I’d prefer a simple bowl of rice and lentils, so I can focus on the beauty around me.
- I’m not really a picky eater, whatever’s on the menu is fine by me.
How comfortable are you with being alone with your thoughts in a quiet garden?
- Incredibly comfortable, I find it incredibly grounding.
- I enjoy some solitude but I wouldn’t want to be alone for too long.
- I much prefer company, a garden is best enjoyed with good conversation and laughter.
- I wouldn’t feel comfortable at all, I’d get bored very quickly.
You have an hour to spend in a Persian Garden; time stops for you while you’re in the garden, so you won’t be late for anything, what do you do?
- I stroll through the gardens, enjoying the scents, sounds, and sights around me.
- I find a secluded bench and get lost in a book of poetry.
- I close my eyes and meditate, connecting with the peaceful energy of nature.
- I people-watch, observing the other visitors and imagining their stories.
Which member of Saadi’s stories are you?
- The wise vizier, always offering sage advice and guiding the ruler towards justice.
- The curious traveler, always eager to learn about new cultures and ways of life.
- The devout seeker, on a constant quest for spiritual enlightenment.
- The humble observer, content to watch the world unfold around me.
How do you feel about the role of fate and free will in shaping a person’s destiny, as explored in the story of the boy who accidentally hit a target?
- I believe our choices matter, even if fate plays a hand in the outcome.
- I tend to think everything happens for a reason and there’s a plan for all of us.
- I feel it’s a delicate dance between the two. Sometimes fate gives you a nudge but it’s up to us how we respond.
- I’m not sure, it’s a complex philosophical question that I haven’t quite figured out yet.
A dervish who is content with his simple life is suddenly thrust into a position of power, how do you think he’ll handle the challenges of leadership?
- With grace and humility, using his position to serve others and promote justice.
- It’ll be a steep learning curve, but he’ll eventually find his footing and become a wise ruler.
- The temptation of power might corrupt him, and he’ll long for the simplicity of his former life.
- It’s impossible to say, it depends on the individual and the circumstances.
What is your strongest personality trait that relates to the themes of Flowers From a Persian Garden?
- My empathy and ability to connect with people from all walks of life.
- My love of learning and thirst for knowledge about different cultures.
- My appreciation for beauty, both in nature and in human interactions.
- My ability to find humor in everyday situations.
What’s your favorite memory of reading a story that transported you to a far-off land?
- I remember being completely swept away by the story, feeling like I was right there in the moment.
- I felt so inspired by the culture and wisdom, it made me want to travel to that place myself.
- It opened my eyes to different ways of life and made me realize how much we all have in common.
- It simply provided a welcome escape from reality.
How would your friends and family describe your ability to appreciate life’s simple pleasures, as emphasized by Saadi?
- They would say I find joy in the little things and I’m grateful for every moment.
- They might describe me as easily pleased, maybe even a bit too easily amused sometimes.
- I’m not sure, I don’t really think about it.
- They might say I need to slow down and appreciate life more.
What comes to mind when you think about the importance of moderation in all aspects of life?
- I envision a balanced scale, representing the need for harmony in everything we do.
- The phrase “too much of a good thing” comes to mind, reminding me to enjoy things in moderation.
- The image of a tightrope walker, carefully balancing to avoid falling into excess.
- Honestly, it just makes me think of boring people who don’t know how to have fun.
What happened in the past when you were faced with a difficult decision that tested your morals?
- I listened to my gut feeling and made the choice that felt right in my heart, even though it was hard.
- I sought guidance from a trusted friend or mentor and followed their advice.
- I weighed the pros and cons carefully and made the most logical decision.
- I probably overthought it, to be honest. I tend to do that.
What’s your go-to piece of wisdom from Saadi or the Talmud that helps you navigate difficult situations?
- The patient man has all he needs, for patience is a substitute for everything else.
- A single moment of patience may ward off great disaster. A single moment of impatience may ruin a whole life.
- He who suppresses his anger when he has the power to show it is a hero.
- Silence is the fence around wisdom.
What makes you nervous about applying ancient wisdom to modern-day problems?
- Sometimes the world feels too complex and different from the times these texts were written.
- I’m always worried I’ll misinterpret the original message or apply it out of context.
- Not everyone shares the same cultural background or values, so the lessons might not resonate with everyone.
- I think it’s important to remember that these texts were written in a different time and place.
Someone asks “How’s your spirit feeling today?” in relation to these stories, what’s the actual answer, not just “I’m good”?
- My spirit feels invigorated by the wisdom and beauty I’ve encountered.
- It’s a bit contemplative, I’m still reflecting on the moral dilemmas presented in the stories.
- I’m feeling quite grounded and connected to the natural world.
- To be honest, I’m not really sure. My spirit is a bit of a mystery to me.
When you were a kid, how did you approach reading stories, especially those with moral lessons?
- I loved to put myself in the characters’ shoes and imagine how I would react in their situations.
- I focused on the entertainment value and didn’t overthink the moral implications.
- I often found the lessons to be preachy and boring, preferring stories that focused on action and adventure.
- I enjoyed discussing the different interpretations of the stories with my friends and family.
What keeps you up at night about the state of morality in the modern world, considering the timeless lessons in these stories?
- I worry about the lack of compassion and empathy in the world.
- I’m concerned by the growing gap between the rich and the poor.
- I’m saddened by the violence and hatred that seem to plague our world.
- I try not to dwell on negative thoughts, but sometimes it feels hard to ignore the state of the world.
What aspect of Persian and Eastern culture are you most excited about learning more about after reading these stories?
- Their tradition of storytelling and how they use narratives to teach moral lessons.
- Their poetry and music, especially the use of language to evoke emotions and imagery.
- Their architecture and gardens, I find the intricate details and symbolism fascinating.
- Their philosophy and religion, particularly the emphasis on self-reflection and inner peace.
What do you dream about when it comes to creating a more compassionate and just world, as inspired by the values presented in these stories?
- I dream of a world where everyone has equal opportunities and no one has to suffer from poverty or oppression.
- I imagine a world where people are more understanding and forgiving of each other’s differences.
- I long for a world where violence and hatred are replaced with dialogue and compassion.
- I try to focus on making a difference in my own small way, rather than trying to change the whole world.
What makes you most frustrated about the greed and materialism that often seem to overshadow the importance of compassion in modern society?
- I’m disheartened by how easily people can be swayed by material possessions and status symbols.
- I’m frustrated by the lack of awareness and gratitude for the simple things in life.
- I’m concerned that we’re losing sight of our shared humanity in the pursuit of personal gain.
- It’s just the way of the world, I’m not surprised by it anymore.
Tell us a little about your understanding of the role that storytelling plays in preserving cultural wisdom and passing it down through generations.
- I believe stories have the power to transcend time and connect us to our shared human experience.
- They make it possible for us to learn from the past and apply those lessons to the present.
- Stories can entertain, educate, and inspire us all at the same time.
- I’m not sure, it’s something I haven’t given much thought to.
A specific situation arises where you have the opportunity to take advantage of someone for your gain, but you know it’s morally wrong, how do you react?
- I immediately dismiss the thought, my conscience wouldn’t allow me to do something like that.
- I might be tempted for a moment but ultimately do the right thing, even if it costs me.
- I struggle with the decision but ultimately convince myself that the ends justify the means.
- It depends on the stakes involved and whether or not I think I’ll get caught.
What causes, topics, interests, etc. are you most passionate about when it comes to applying ancient wisdom to your own life?
- Promoting social justice and equality for all.
- Living a more mindful and intentional life.
- Fostering compassion and understanding in my relationships with others.
- Cultivating inner peace and contentment in a chaotic world.
If you could choose any character trait from the characters in these stories, which one would you choose and why?
- I would choose wisdom because it allows you to navigate life’s complexities with grace and make sound judgments.
- I would choose compassion because it enables you to connect with others on a deeper level and make a positive impact on the world.
- I would choose resilience because it helps you overcome challenges and bounce back from adversity.
- I would choose wit because it allows you to find humor in difficult situations and bring joy to those around you.
What’s your favorite anecdote or parable from the text that you find yourself reflecting on the most?
- The story about the boy who burned his bow reminds me that even in failure, there is an opportunity for growth.
- The parable about the two wolves fighting within us, reminds me of the constant struggle between our better and worse natures.
- The anecdote about the man who searched for a lost camel in his own house, makes me laugh at the absurdity of human nature.
- I find myself drawn to the stories about wise rulers who prioritize justice and the well-being of their people.
What affects you the most: the wisdom, the humor, or the cultural insights presented in these stories?
- The wisdom, as it offers timeless guidance on how to live a more fulfilling life.
- The humor, as it provides a much-needed break from the seriousness of life’s lessons.
- The cultural insights, as they broaden my understanding of the world and challenge my perspectives.
- It’s a combination of all three. Each element enhances the reading experience.
What’s your idea of a modern-day fable that would teach valuable lessons about life in the 21st century?
- A fable about the dangers of social media and the importance of real-life connections.
- A story about a young entrepreneur who learns that true success comes from following your passion, not just chasing profits.
- A modern-day retelling of the Tortoise and the Hare, emphasizing the importance of perseverance and hard work in a world of instant gratification.
- A cautionary tale about the importance of protecting our environment and living sustainably.
What is the first thing that comes to mind when you encounter a situation where someone is being greedy or selfish?
- I try to remind myself that everyone is fighting their battles, and sometimes those battles manifest in negative ways.
- I feel a surge of disappointment and frustration at the lack of consideration for others.
- I try to address the behavior in a compassionate but firm manner, hoping to encourage a change of heart.
- I try to remove myself from the situation as quickly as possible. I don’t have time for that kind of negativity.
How prepared are you to face life’s inevitable challenges and setbacks with the wisdom and resilience emphasized in these stories?
- I feel equipped to handle whatever comes my way.
- I have the tools but I’m still learning how to use them effectively.
- I have a lot of work to do in terms of building my resilience.
- I’m not sure, I guess I’ll find out when I get there.
How confident are you in your ability to discern wise advice from foolish counsel, as depicted in the many interactions between rulers and their advisors?
- I’m fairly confident in my judgment, I’ve learned to trust my gut.
- I’m always open to advice, but I take everything with a grain of salt.
- I rely heavily on the opinions of others, I’m not very good at making decisions on my own.
- I’m not sure, it’s a skill I’m still developing.
What happens if you encounter someone who dismisses the wisdom of these ancient texts as outdated or irrelevant?
- I engage in a respectful conversation about the timelessness of the lessons and how they can still be applied to modern-day issues.
- I agree to disagree and move on, it’s not worth arguing with someone who is close-minded.
- I’m secretly delighted by the opportunity to engage in a lively debate.
- I feel disheartened by their lack of curiosity and willingness to learn from other cultures.
What do you think you need to work on most to fully embody the values of compassion, moderation, and wisdom emphasized in the text?
- I need to be more patient, both with myself and with others.
- I need to practice more gratitude for the things I have, instead of focusing on what I lack.
- I need to be more mindful of my words and actions and their impact on others.
- I need to prioritize my own well-being and make time for self-care.
How often do you engage in introspection and self-reflection, as encouraged by the introspective nature of Saadi’s writings and the teachings of the Talmud?
- I make it a point to reflect on my thoughts, feelings, and actions regularly.
- I try to be more introspective but I often get caught up in the hustle and bustle of daily life.
- I’m not very introspective, I prefer to live in the moment and not dwell on the past.
- I’m not sure introspection is really my thing, I find it a bit self-indulgent.
Do you have a support system in place, such as close friends or family members, who you can confide in and seek guidance from when faced with moral dilemmas, as many characters in these stories do?
- Absolutely, I’m fortunate to have a strong support system.
- I have a few close friends and family members who I can rely on.
- I tend to keep my problems to myself, I don’t like burdening others.
- I’m not sure, I haven’t really needed to rely on anyone for that kind of support before.
How do you handle situations where you witness injustice or inequality, remembering the importance of speaking out against oppression, as exemplified by Nushirvan the Just?
- I speak up, even if it’s uncomfortable or puts me at risk.
- I try to find ways to support those who are being oppressed, even if I can’t directly intervene.
- I often feel powerless to make a difference, so I don’t do anything.
- I try to remember that not every situation requires my involvement, and sometimes it’s best to stay silent.
Which of these best describes your current approach to navigating life’s complexities, drawing inspiration from the characters and lessons in these stories?
- I strive to approach every situation with wisdom, compassion, and a sense of humor.
- I’m a work in progress, constantly learning and trying to be a better person.
- I tend to muddle through, hoping for the best but not always sure I’m making the right choices.
- I rely on my instincts and hope for the best.
What is your current biggest challenge when it comes to incorporating the values of generosity, contentment, and gratitude into your life, as emphasized by the tales of misers and those who find joy in simplicity?
- Letting go of material attachments and finding happiness in experiences and relationships.
- Practicing gratitude for what I have, instead of constantly striving for more.
- Being content with my current circumstances while still working towards my goals.
- Balancing my own needs with the needs of others.
What’s the first thing that comes to mind when you are tempted to make a decision based on greed or selfishness?
- I pause and ask myself if this decision aligns with my values and who I want to be.
- I consider the potential consequences of my actions on others.
- I try to find a compromise that benefits everyone involved.
- I remind myself that true happiness comes from giving, not taking.
How do you handle feelings of envy or resentment when you see others who seem to have more wealth, success, or happiness than you, considering the stories’ warnings about the dangers of covetousness?
- I try to reframe my thinking and focus on gratitude for what I have.
- I remind myself that appearances can be deceiving and everyone faces challenges.
- I use those feelings as motivation to work harder and achieve my own goals.
- I try to avoid social situations where I’m likely to compare myself to others.
How would you describe your relationship to the natural world and your appreciation for its beauty, considering the importance placed on gardens and nature in these tales?
- I have a deep reverence for nature and find solace in its embrace.
- I enjoy spending time outdoors but don’t always appreciate its subtler beauty.
- I live in a city and don’t have much connection to nature, but I appreciate its aesthetic qualities.
- I’m not really a nature person, I prefer the company of humans and the comforts of indoor living.
Are you stuck in a cycle of constantly chasing after more possessions, achievements, or validation from others, despite the stories emphasizing the fulfillment found in simple living and inner peace?
- Not anymore. I’ve realized that true happiness comes from within.
- I’m still working on breaking free from the need for external validation.
- I’m very aware of the trap of materialism, but I haven’t figured out how to escape it.
- I’m not sure I see the problem. I enjoy working hard and rewarding myself.
What would you say are your top struggles right now when it comes to practicing the virtues of patience, humility, and forgiveness in your daily interactions?
- I’m easily impatient, especially when it comes to dealing with other people’s shortcomings.
- I struggle with accepting criticism and often take things personally.
- Holding onto grudges is something I’m actively trying to work on.
- I believe I have a good balance of patience, humility, and forgiveness in my life.
What is your personal “garden of contentment” goal? What brings you true fulfillment and a sense of inner peace?
- Cultivating meaningful relationships with loved ones and contributing to a cause bigger than myself.
- Pursuing my passions, expanding my knowledge, and experiencing new adventures.
- Living a life of purpose and making a difference in the world.
- Achieving financial security, professional success, and personal recognition.
What do you think is missing in your life that would help you cultivate a greater sense of inner peace and contentment, as depicted in the stories of those who find joy in simplicity?
- A stronger connection to nature and a simpler, less cluttered lifestyle.
- A deeper understanding of myself and my purpose in life.
- A more positive outlook and a greater appreciation for the present moment.
- I’m not sure, I feel content with where I am in life.
What is your current level of expertise in applying the principles of moderation, balance, and gratitude to your daily routine?
- I’m actively incorporating these principles into my life and seeing positive results.
- I’m aware of these principles but still working on consistently putting them into practice.
- I understand the concepts, but I need help putting them into action.
- I’m not familiar with these principles, but I’m open to learning more.
Someone asks “How are you doing?” in a way that feels deeper than just surface-level small talk, what do you say?
- Honestly, I’m feeling inspired to live a more meaningful life, thanks to the wisdom of these stories.
- I’m doing okay, still figuring things out, but I’m trying to be more present and appreciate the journey.
- I’m doing my best, but it’s hard not to feel overwhelmed by everything going on in the world.
- I’m fine, thanks for asking. How are you?
What descriptive word do you experience most: Curiosity, tranquility, amusement, or skepticism?
- Curiosity – I’m always eager to learn and discover new perspectives.
- Tranquility – I find peace in the simple things and enjoy moments of quiet contemplation.
- Amusement – I appreciate wit and humor and often find myself laughing at life’s absurdities.
- Skepticism – I tend to question everything and need proof before I believe anything.
Which of the following do you notice yourself worrying about on a day-to-day basis: Material possessions, social status, fulfilling my potential, or maintaining inner peace?
- I worry about not living up to my full potential and making a meaningful contribution to the world.
- I often feel pressure to keep up with societal expectations of success.
- It’s important to me to cultivate a sense of inner peace and harmony amidst the chaos.
- I’m content with my life and don’t tend to worry about things outside my control.
How inspired and challenged do you feel in your quest to live a more virtuous and fulfilling life?
- I’m incredibly inspired and motivated to make positive changes.
- I’m trying my best but it’s a constant work in progress.
- I need a bit of a push to get started, I often get stuck in a rut.
- I’m not sure a virtuous life is something I actively strive for.
How connected do you feel to the universal truths about human nature and the human condition explored in these timeless stories?
- Deeply connected, I see myself and my experiences reflected in these stories.
- I can relate to some aspects of the stories but not all of them.
- I find it interesting to learn about different cultures but don’t see much personal relevance.
- I’m not sure, I haven’t thought about it that deeply.
I believe you are capable of making a positive impact on the world by embracing the wisdom and values presented in these stories. What do you think?
- I appreciate your belief in me. I’m trying my best to make a difference.
- It’s a nice thought, but I don’t know if I’m capable of making that kind of impact.
- I’m not sure what I can do as one person, but I’m open to suggestions.
- I don’t think that’s a realistic expectation, the world is too messed up for one person to make a difference.
I’m afraid that the distractions and demands of modern life prevent us from fully appreciating the simple yet profound lessons found in these ancient tales. What are your thoughts?
- I agree, it’s easy to get caught up in the hustle and bustle.
- It’s a valid concern, but I believe we can find balance if we prioritize what’s important.
- It’s true, but it’s not like these stories are going anywhere, we can always revisit them.
- I don’t really see the relevance of these stories to my life, so it’s not something I worry about.
Which of the following is most likely to frustrate you: Injustice, ingratitude, hypocrisy, or apathy?
- Injustice, I can’t stand to see people being treated unfairly.
- Ingratitude, it’s disheartening when people don’t appreciate the good things in their lives.
- Hypocrisy, it’s infuriating when people don’t practice what they preach.
- Apathy, it’s frustrating when people don’t seem to care about the world around them.
What is the trickiest part about finding balance between enjoying life’s pleasures and living a life of purpose and meaning?
- It’s a constant juggling act, trying to find time for everything.
- I sometimes feel guilty for indulging in pleasure when there’s so much work to be done.
- It’s about finding what works for me and not comparing my journey to others.
- I’m not sure I understand the question, can you rephrase it?
Do you tend to focus more on external achievements and validations, or on cultivating inner peace and contentment?
- I’m working on shifting my focus inward, realizing that external validation is fleeting.
- I’m a healthy balance of both, striving for success while also prioritizing my well-being.
- I’m very ambitious and driven to achieve my goals, even if it means sacrificing some inner peace.
- I’m pretty content with my life, I don’t feel the need to prove anything to anyone.