Each morning, a farmer went to a stream to fill two large clay pots hung on each end of a pole, which he carried across his neck.
While one of the pots was perfect, the other had a crack in it causing it to leak during the entire long walk to the house.
The perfect pot always delivered a full portion of water but the cracked pot arrived only half full.
This went on for years with the farmer bringing home only one and a half pots full of water.
The perfect pot was properly proud of its performance but the cracked pot was ashamed, aware of how its imperfection increased the burden of the farmer.
Finally, while the farmer was filling the pots, the cracked pot spoke, apologizing profusely for its failures. “I am so ashamed,” the pot said. “You deserve a pot that can give you everything you need. Please dispose of me and get another perfect pot.”
The farmer replied, “You have nothing to apologize for. We have always had enough water but what you consider a flaw has added beauty to my life. When we walk home today please notice the beautiful flowers all along the path. They are only on your side of the path.”
“What does that have to do with me?” the cracked pot asked.
“I have always known about the crack that causes the water to leak,” the farmer replied. “So I planted flower seeds on your side of the path knowing that every morning you would water them.”
“Because you are just the way you are, our home is always graced by beautiful flowers. It would not be the same without you.”
Moral: There is beauty and utility in all of us. Imperfections are not necessarily flaws. Each person can contribute to the well-being of the universe and the happiness of those we touch.