The Secrets of Success
A Young Man's Journey
By
H. Bradley Stucki
Copyright 2004 by H. Bradley Stucki
Smashwords Edition
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Be sure to check out these other books by H. Bradley Stucki
The Ultimate Investment; Achieving Life's Highest Returns; an Allegory
Being, Doing & Knowing; The 3 Basic Principals of Achievement
The Simplest of Gifts, The Greatest of Powers
Chapter 1
Joshua plodded up the last steps to the palace entrance. It was the home of the great Merchant Prince Jairus, the most successful person in all Galatia. He was amazed at its magnificence. He'd walked in from the street, and to his surprise, the gate had been open. No one on guard. It looked as if the gate was rarely attended. It didn't even have a locking mechanism. That was strange.
He'd wandered up the meandering path to the doorway, overhung with exotic plants and covering shrubbery. Small statuettes and fountains sat away in the grounds. He realized there was much more he couldn't see, hidden by the huge house and shrubs. The palace sat enclosed by a high wall that took in a full city block. People he'd met in the city had cheerfully given him directions. He'd thought someone as rich as the Merchant Prince surely would bring animosity and envy from the poorer people of the city, after all, that was the way of it where he was from. Yet, he didn't feel that from the people he'd spoken to.
Of course, he wasn't in any frame of mind now to judge. He was excited, apprehensive, unsure. His long journey was finished. He'd traveled here to see the Merchant Prince. Now he was finally standing at his door.
He knocked on the huge, intricately carved doors, his knuckles went numb from pounding on the solid surface. No one answered for a time, so he pounded again, this time harder, making sure his presence would be known. While he waited, he turned and looked back down the path. His mind drifted back over the long journey traveling this long way to persuade the Merchant Prince to teach him his secrets of success.
Now that he was here, seeing the massive wealth the man possessed, just standing in his entryway, he began to feel small.
Why did I ever think I could do this? I'm but a boy, standing out here with nothing to offer. I must look foolish.
He'd first heard of the Merchant Prince in the marketplace of his home city. Amazing tales were told of his wondrous wealth and great works. Anyone who knew of him spoke with reverence and awe. Joshua had been intrigued. Then he happened to overhear a discussion between two traveling merchants. They were talking of the Merchant Prince while waiting to meet with Joshua's employer, a small retail merchant in the city. This really had gotten him thinking.
"I tell you Farhad," one of the merchants had begun. "I wouldn't have believed it if I hadn't witnessed it myself. The Merchant Prince actually brought a beggar in off the street, fed him, gave him a bed for the night, and sent him out the next morning for employment at one of his shops. He sent with him a note to his man there -- and gave the beggar a month's wages in advance!"
"Surely this isn't true," replied his companion. "He'll lose all his wealth. Every beggar in the city will be at his doorstep. The man's riches must be driving him crazy, as to throw it away like that. Everyone knows beggars are no more than common thieves anyway. They bring poverty upon themselves. They're sinful or just plain lazy. It is God's punishment."
"Yes . . ." answered the first merchant, nodding agreement. "Yet, it happens all the time. I hear the Merchant Prince has some power he uses to convert these men into his best bondsmen. One of his most able lieutenants, I know for myself, was once a homeless man he took in not five years ago."
"That can't be!" said the second merchant. "I work hard to find good bondsmen. Even then I have to watch them like a hawk or they steal me blind. The Merchant Prince must possess some dark power. I can't imagine any man being as successful as he without something going on -- especially after hearing of his crazy ideas."
"That isn't the half of it," the first merchant continued, shaking his head. "I know for a fact, each year the Merchant Prince chooses one, among all the common folk, whom he teaches his secrets."
The second merchant's mouth dropped open. The first continued to speak. "Many a man, after learning these secrets, has grown very prosperous. There must be something to them, or they wouldn't work as well as they have."
"I don't understand how," the second merchant responded. "I mean, what does he know that we don't?"
Joshua, who'd been listening discreetly at a distance, felt a sudden flash of inspiration. Although quite young, he'd thought much about how to achieve success for himself. It wasn't that he needed to be rich or anything. But he felt he was headed nowhere now. He wanted that to change, to grow. To become . . . Well . . . Better!
His desire had been so strong. He’d often lain awake at night wondering how he could make it all come to pass. Now, in listening to these merchants talk, the seeds of an idea began to grow.
"Forgive my interruption kind sirs," Joshua began. He was grateful now for the flowery words his master always used. It helped him form just the right words. "I could not help but overhear your talk of the Merchant Prince. Please tell me, in what city does the Merchant Prince live?"
"What is it to you?" replied the second merchant, his dark eyes scowling.
Barely containing his excitement, Joshua answered, "I want to go and ask of the Merchant Prince to teach me his secrets."
Both men burst out laughing. "You're nothing but an apprentice shopkeeper. What would the Merchant Prince have to do with the likes of you?" the first merchant said through his laughter.
Then the second merchant turned on him."Yes, you're nothing but a shopkeeper's apprentice whom we sent with a message to your master some time ago. Have you told him we're here, or have you been sitting around eavesdropping like some ill-mannered waif?"
Joshua gathered himself up to make an angry reply when his master came walking into the front of the shop.
"I'm sorry to have kept you waiting, my friends. Please excuse my apprentice. He's still young and full of hopes." The shopkeeper abruptly motioned for Joshua to get back to work.
"Come," the shopkeeper said, indicating a small table and chairs in a corner of his shop. "Let's have a look at what you've brought."
With business at hand, Joshua was quickly forgotten and left to finish his work --"as a shopkeeper's apprentice," he mumbled sourly to himself.
But it didn't stop there. Joshua had felt an impulsive draw to learn more. Over the next few days, he’d spent all his spare time in the marketplace learning all he could of the Merchant Prince Jairus. The more he learned, the more he wanted to see him. Finally the desire became so intense he couldn't hold back. He had to see the Merchant Prince!
In the marketplace he sold his meager possessions to raise enough money for the journey; the words of his former master still echoing in his mind,"He's still young and full of hopes." Joshua got angry even thinking about it.
"I am full of hopes!" Joshua mumbled to himself. "Is that such a crime?" He couldn't explain it. He just knew if he could meet the Merchant Prince and ask, he'd agree to teach him his secrets.
For as long as he could remember, Joshua had wondered what made some successful, while others barely survived from day to day. Why were some efforts rewarded much more than others? It had troubled him. Maybe now, he'd learn the answers.
In spite of much ridicule by friends and against the vehement protests of his former master, he’d set out on the long journey. He bought passage on a caravan by working as a beast handler. The work had been hard and dirty, but enabled him to travel and still have a little money on which to survive once he arrived.
Despite the hard work, the journey had been filled with anticipation of his upcoming audience with the Merchant Prince. He was often so deep in thought he didn't even realize whole days had passed without noticing how hard he had worked or how far the caravan had traveled.
"At last," Joshua said to himself as he stood at the Merchant Prince's doorstep, "I'm going to learn the Merchant Prince's secrets, and achieve all I ever wanted."
The large doors opened with a whooshing sound, telling of their weight and cost. Behind the opening doors, Joshua was greeted by a distinguished and primly dressed elderly servant. Upon catching sight of Joshua, he raised his eyebrows in surprise.
Joshua noticed this, and suddenly realized, in his eagerness to meet the Merchant Prince, he’d forgotten how dirty the long journey through the desert, handling the beasts of the caravan had made him.
"What may I do for you?" the servant inquired in a polite and polished voice.
Joshua was now extremely self conscious. Yet he was determined, and proceeded with the speech he had practiced every day of his long journey.
"I have come to seek audience with the Merchant Prince," he began. "I've heard each year he chooses one from among the common people with whom he shares his secrets. After many days travel, I have come to speak with him and convince him I’m worthy of this great privilege."
The servant was surprised again by the bluntness of Joshua's request, yet with the skill of many years' service he quickly regained his composure and looked at him intently. Joshua grew more nervous, waiting, and wished he’d have cooled his enthusiasm just long enough to think about making himself presentable. What a sight he must appear to this representative of the man he needed so much to meet.
Still, he didn't give up hope. He'd traveled far, and his feeling persisted. If he could just talk with the Merchant Prince, he would be granted his desire.
After what seemed like an eternity, but in reality only a few seconds, the servant spoke.
"Yours is not an unusual request, but the Merchant Prince himself chooses whom he will teach. I will convey your message. If he would like to speak with you, he will grant an audience. Come back tomorrow at this same time and I will give you his answer."
The doors closed before Joshua could say anything. He hadn't thought it would happen so quickly, being turned away without an audience. It was stupid to think he would be invited in with open arms as soon as his request was made -- especially the way he looked.
"At least," he consoled himself, "I've not been told no." Tomorrow, he would return. This time he would be better prepared.
Chapter 2
Right on time, Joshua again presented himself at the palace entrance. He was much better prepared. Much of the money he’d saved over the long journey went to purchase new clothing and to get cleaned up. Writing material and parchment was cheap enough, and he’d penned a message to the Merchant Prince, just in case his audience wasn’t granted.
After knocking, the door opened to reveal the same servant he had spoken with the day before. Upon seeing the change in Joshua, the servant was taken aback.
Before the servant could speak, Joshua began.
"I have returned as you requested. I apologize for my appearance during my last visit. In my excitement to meet with the Merchant Prince, I did not think upon my appearance and the great disrespect it must have showed. I appreciate the time you have afforded me to better prepare."
Joshua had lain awake most of the night finding the right words to say. When Joshua finally spoke, they came out nervous and fast, but the servant was clearly impressed at the change a day had made.
"My master has instructed me to inform you that since you have made such a long journey to visit with him, you are invited to share in some of his humble hospitality this evening. He has asked that you join he and his family for the evening meal, and stay the night at the palace while the Merchant Prince considers your request. You may gather your belongings and return here shortly before the dinner hour, at which time I will help you get settled."
Joshua was so excited he could barely stammer out a reply.
"My most gracious thanks to your master -- and you kind sir!" Joshua was almost bursting with the good fortune that seemed to be smiling on him.
"And please, I pray, give him also this message. It is a letter of introduction and an explanation of my request."
Bowing repeatedly in his exuberance, Joshua backed away from the entryway. "Once again, my thanks to you and your master. I will return at the appointed time." With that, Joshua turned and strode down the pathway to the palace gate. It seemed as if he were walking on air.
He remembered how nervous he had been. Now he walked with a purposeful stride; a stride telling of happiness and confidence. Now he had a chance!
Chapter 3
Joshua glanced at the sun. There was still half a day before he needed to return to the palace. He had just reached the huge marketplace of the city. People were thronging about, hawking their wares to anyone who came close enough to be within earshot. Joshua wandered around, amazed at the sight.
The marketplace back home was an empty street compared to this. Such an assortment of fine merchandise and goods he had never seen. He meandered from booth to booth, drinking in the experience.
Merchants would often run up and push merchandise into his hands or hold clothing up to his body for him to see how fine it looked. After a short time, an idea sprang into Joshua's mind. He wanted desperately to make a good impression on the Merchant Prince and his family. It would help in being found worthy to be taught the secrets. Coming this far, he didn't want to fail now.
With what money he had left (which wasn't much), he would buy a gift. It might not be much to the Merchant Prince or his family, considering their great wealth, but surely it would make some difference -- especially if he could find just the right gift.
With renewed excitement, Joshua began looking earnestly. After a time of fruitless searching, he grew discouraged. There were many fine things he would have liked to purchase, but each was too expensive, even for the best of bargainers – which he wasn’t. Just when Joshua was about to give up, he came upon a small booth off in a side street. It had the perfect gift. A small vase beautifully sculpted and painted. What's more, it was from his hometown. He recognized the mark from one of the finest craftsmen in his country. He eagerly counted his money yet again. Yes. Just enough if he could bargain closely.
Hastily, Joshua tried to get the merchant’s attention, praying that none of the other customers would purchase the vase before he could make a bargain.
He began to picture in his mind just how he would present it. Then something caught his attention.
Over against a building, off in a hidden part of the street, a small girl, not more than ten or twelve years of age, sat. A ragged display of frail flowers spread close around.
Joshua's heart went out to her. It was plain that selling flowers was a desperate means of support. And she wasn’t having much success. People passed by as she held out a small handful of flowers, hoping someone stop.
Joshua could see she hadn't had much to eat. She was thin, and her clothing, although it appeared she had tried to keep it clean, was worn.
He hesitated. The merchant was becoming nervous. Others were waiting impatiently for his attention. Joshua looked back at the vase, but couldn’t erase the sight of the girl.
He’d never been rich by any stretch of imagination, yet compared to the girl, he felt blessed.
Joshua turned from the booth. He wandered over to the girl. She looked up with bright blue eyes. The color mesmerized him. Pulling out his money Joshua gave it to her.
The little girl was overwhelmed at making such a sale. She pulled Joshua down close and kissed him on the cheek, tears filled her eyes. She gathered all the flowers close. “This is enough, sir. You’ve purchased them all.” With that she stood, hugging him again, and sped off down the street.
Joshua, by all counts thought he should feel downtrodden. Now he would not be able to bring a gift to the Merchant Prince's house. He had the flowers, but they were small and wilted, hardly a suitable gift for someone surrounded by incredible finery. It would seem an insult.
Joshua, though, was not downtrodden. Instead, he had a great swelling deep in his heart telling him he had done the right thing. It was a feeling money could never purchase.
Joshua gathered the flowers and began to wander down the street, occasionally giving away some to an older woman he passed, enjoying the surprise and delight it caused. He no longer worried about a gift for the Merchant Prince.
There would be another way to impress the Merchant Prince. For now, he still had time to see the amazing sights of the city, and cherish the warm feeling still burning in his heart.
Back at the end of the street where Joshua had purchased the flowers, bargaining and hawking of wares continued without interruption. No one had noticed the kind deed he had done. That is, except for one elegantly dressed woman. Seeing such generosity had touched her heart.
She dabbed tears with a deep colored scarf, hesitated a moment, and then proceeded with the bargaining she had interrupted to watch. She glanced back again just long enough to watch the little girl, still clutching the money to her breast, skip joyously down the street to her humble home.
Chapter 4
Joshua, for the third time in two days, presented himself at the palace entrance. He was still nervous, but not near so as he had been on the first two occasions. Again, he was greeted by the distinguished looking servant, this time with recognition and welcome. He was immediately invited in and shown to his room.
As the servant finished helping Joshua settle in, he left with the assurance he would come back shortly before dinner to escort Joshua to the dining room. Joshua began to survey his surroundings, and was amazed at the richly trapped vases, plants, linens, and art displayed throughout the room. It was hard to believe a guest room was so richly appointed. Off to one corner, he noticed a large sunken bath made of marble. It was full of warm water fed by an ornately sculpted fountain. Although he could not see where the water drained, he could tell it was continually being circulated, always keeping the water fresh.
He continued to take note of the huge room as he quickly undressed and brushed his clothing to rid it of the dust from the street. He went over and climbed into the bath and discovered soap and sponges sitting in a lip of the bath previously hidden from view. "Never in my wildest dreams . . ." Joshua said to himself.
After washing, he sat back and began to soak in the warm waters. His mind reflected over all that had happened in the last few weeks of his life. He closed his eyes and said a silent prayer of thanks for his blessings.
Joshua's mind then turned back to the present. There had to be a way he could impress the Merchant Prince. With no gift, he needed something. Thinking intently on this problem, he leaned back further into the warm waters and closed his eyes to concentrate.
The combination of warm water, the nervous excitement of the last few days, and fatigue from the long journey overcame Joshua and he fell fast asleep.
He was startled awake by the entrance of the servant come to summon him for dinner. He hurried and rose from the water, frantically dried himself, and dressed, all the while apologizing for his falling asleep.
On the way to the dining room, Joshua remembered he had wanted to think of some way to impress the Merchant Prince and his family. Now it was too late!
Joshua wondered whether it had been wise to purchase flowers from the girl instead of bringing a gift for the Merchant Prince. Then he quickly dismissed the thought. Memory of the little girl pulling him down to plant a kiss on his cheek renewed the warmth in his heart, and brought a ready smile to his lips.
Joshua marveled upon entering the dining room; not from the ornate decorations and luxurious surroundings, but more at the sight of the Merchant Prince. He really didn't have a picture of what he expected the Merchant Prince to be, but what he saw dashed whatever image he might have had.
The man, who obviously was the Merchant Prince, sat at the head of a long table. He was much younger than Joshua expected, appearing to be in his late thirties, handsome and slim. His dark eyes seemed full of life and vigor. His face radiated kindness, and his black hair added to an obvious air of easy confidence, which unaccountably made Joshua feel at ease. He couldn't explain it, but he felt immediate acceptance from this man, who, to his surprise, got up from his place at the table and came around to personally welcome him.
"Greetings my young friend," the Merchant Prince began. "I am told you have journeyed far to see me. I have also received and read the message you gave my servant. Come, join with us now, and we will discuss your request later. I'm pleased you would join us."
Joshua, dumfounded at such a warm welcome, stammered.
"My greatest thanks to you and your family for sharing this meal and lodging with me. I have heard of your wondrous hospitality even in my distant land. Now I discover its truth for myself, I still find it hard to believe."
At that, the Merchant Prince laughed. "Come my friend, I want you to meet my family." Through another entrance on the far side of the room, two women entered, talking together as they walked. Joshua noticed one was older than the other, but both were attractive. They each had dark hair, fair skin and walked with easy grace, which spoke of high breeding.
Joshua particularly took note of the younger, appearing to be about his same age. He hadn't given much thought about women or marriage before. His life had allowed no time other than simply surviving day to day. Now, as he looked upon the great beauty of the younger woman, something inside stirred.
As the young woman came forward with her mother, her eyes met Joshua's briefly. At that, she blushed slightly before turning to look at her father, the Merchant Prince.
"This is my beautiful wife, Allisa," the Merchant Prince began, presenting his wife lovingly to Joshua.
As she extended her hand to Joshua, she looked at him closely . . . She’d seen him somewhere . . . yet couldn't place where.
Recovering quickly, she smiled and said, "We are glad you would join us. It is often that we have visitors from far places, but none so young and handsome."
Now it was Joshua's turn to blush.
The Merchant Prince's wife stepped aside and motioned her daughter forward, which she did shyly.
"This is our only daughter, Fahni." She held out her hand to Joshua, who nervously took it in his. She gave him a shy, but radiant smile. "Welcome to our home Joshua. My Father tells me you have traveled from a far country. I look forward to hearing of it, and your family."
At mention of his family, Joshua became uncomfortable. He had never gotten over their loss.
Perhaps taking note of his discomfiture, the Merchant Prince interrupted."Come" motioning to the well-spread table before them all. "Let us sit and eat while we talk. The food will turn cold before we will have tasted it."
Joshua, to his amazement, was seated on the Merchant Prince's right, the position of honor. To the Merchant Prince's left sat his wife, and to Joshua's right (to his great pleasure), sat Fahni. He couldn’t remember when he’d seen a more beautiful girl.
To Allisa's left sat a person whom the Merchant Prince introduced as the house steward. The remaining two people were introduced by name as friends, but Joshua recognized one as a beggar he had seen earlier outside in the city.
So, it was indeed true. The Merchant Prince fed and clothed the homeless and downtrodden. The more Joshua learned of the Merchant Prince , the more his awe of him grew.
"Before we begin," the Merchant Prince said. "We always give thanks for that which has been so bountifully given us." With that, he bowed his head and offered a simple prayer, giving thanks and asking a blessing to be upon his family and guests.
Joshua, again, wondered at the humble but assured bearing of the Merchant Prince. It was not at all what he had expected. Certainly he wasn’t anything like the rich men of his city. Those men were arrogant, and often took advantage of others, boasting of their guile and deceit. Joshua fervently hoped the message he had penned earlier had impressed the Merchant Prince enough to be taught his secrets.
As the food was passed around the table, the Merchant Prince again took up the conversation. "It has long been a custom in our household for the guests to tell us a bit about themselves. To help you to feel comfortable in doing so, I will begin by telling you a little bit about myself."
"I was born here, in Galatia, but at a young age my family moved to Jerusalem where my father was a merchant, providing goods to the Roman Legions occupying that area. For a time, I worked in my Father's employ, but later left to follow other things of great importance to me. My Father and Mother never really did understand my leaving my Father's business.
"After certain . . . events, I left Jerusalem to return here to Galatia. I started out in a small street stand such as you see in the marketplace now. Shortly after I met my lovely wife Allisa and we were soon married; somewhat against her Father's wishes I might add," the Merchant Prince said with a gleam in his eyes.
"You see, I was young and quite poor at the time. With Allisa’s great beauty, her Father had many offers for her hand. Some had quite luxurious gifts to offer. However, after much persuasion and hard work on both our parts, we finally received her Father's consent. To this day, the day of our marriage is the happiest of my life."
The Merchant Prince glanced at his wife who reached over and grasped his hand.
Joshua glanced over at Fahni, who was also watching her parents. She had a warm smile as she looked from her father, to her mother. It was obvious great love bound this family together. Joshua's heart began to ache anew, missing his own family.
Not only is the Merchant Prince rich in material possessions, but in the love he shares with his family. It's a treasure I don't have. And no amount of money will ever buy it for me. He began to wonder if he was really seeking after the right thing. If Joshua could only find such love as the Merchant Prince and his family shared, he would be happy never to have money. At least he would have the love he missed so much since the loss of his family.
After a brief pause, the Merchant Prince composed himself and continued. "The second happiest day of my life was the day my young Fahni was born. She was a small and homely creature at birth, but look at her now. She has become as the prettiest of jewels." The Merchant Prince smiled at her.
"Father!" Fahni complained, embarrassed. Joshua wanted to think some of her embarrassment was caused because of her desire to impress him. He had noticed her sneaking glances his way a few times while her father was speaking.
At one point, Joshua happened to be looking at her when she glanced at him. When their eyes met, she immediately averted her eyes and bowed her head slightly while Joshua noted a slight flush come to her cheeks. This pleased Joshua, but before he could dwell on it further, the Merchant Prince turned to him and spoke.
"Now for the young and honored guest on my right. Joshua has traveled a great a distance to see me. Tell us about yourself."
Joshua was nervous, but took a deep breath and began with a little hesitation.
"I was born in Egypt, but my family did not have any certain home. We raised sheep, traveling much, always in search of fresh grazing." As Joshua began describing his past, the images began to flow. He couldn’t explain it. For the first time since . . . he felt like talking about what had happened. Indeed, he felt relief he could talk of it to the Merchant Prince and his family. Perhaps it was because the Merchant Prince cared so much for his own family. Perhaps it was because, for some reason, he felt the Merchant Prince really cared, even though they had just met.
Joshua continued, now remembering more easily than before. The memories came back into his mind as if they'd been waiting to be unlocked and only now could come forth.
"One day, when I was about twelve years of age, I was returning from the fields where I had been taking my night-turn at watering and tending our flocks. As I neared our camp, from a small rise some distance away, I could see something was wrong. Columns of smoke were rising and it was entirely deserted. No movement where there should have been quite a bit of activity.
"You see, my family was large and our camp included my three older brothers and their families as well as my younger brother and two sisters. It being the custom of my people to always remain together.
"When I saw the lack of activity, and smoke rising in places I knew no campfires had been set, immediately my heart set to pounding. I was filled with fear. We had heard of raids on other, smaller camps by a group of bandits who’d been roving the wilderness for some time. Our camp was sufficiently large, though, that we had felt little danger from such attacks. Yet the sight that met my eyes . . .
"I hurriedly made my way down to camp. In my speed and recklessness, I suffered cuts and bruises from many falls traveling across the rough terrain. Despite my haste, it still took me another hour to reach the campsite. The sight that met my eyes was so painful for my young eyes to behold the image has burned itself into my memory. It is as clear today as it was then, six years ago.
"The camp was in shambles. Bandits had indeed attacked. Several of their bodies were laying about the ground. Our tents had been burned. Our possessions stolen.
"Still, I had hope for finding my family. None of them were among the bodies. I had made a hasty search of the camp with no results. Next I began to search the surrounding areas where my family could have taken refuge and defend themselves more easily against attack. At last, in my desperation, I stumbled upon a low ravine about 100 rods across the plain from our campsite. Toward the end of the ravine, I noticed a large opening that went back into the bank about fifteen feet, and an opening of about ten feet wide, and six high. Faint whisps of smoke were drifting lazily out of the mouth of the embankment. That’s how I had found it. My heart filled with hope. Perhaps my family had found this place of hiding and avoided the sure death of being found by the bandits.
"I crept slowly up to the opening, keeping as quiet as I could so as not to draw attention to myself if perhaps the smoke came from a leftover group of bandits instead of my family. As I neared the edge and peered carefully around the corner, the sight that met my eyes broke my young heart and filled it with horror.
Inside, I found without exception, all the members of my family, laying where they had been horribly slain.
"That day, seeing my family dead, something within me also died. It was not until this day that I have been able to talk of it without great difficulty.
"Now,” Joshua lifted his eyes to the Merchant Prince, “seeing the love you have in your family, the part of me that died that day has been restored. It is a debt I don't know how I can repay."
Silence reigned in the room as the sadness of Joshua's story settled into the hearts of the listeners. The Merchant Prince's eyes were full of compassion and sorrow, and Allisa's head was bowed in respectful silence. Fahni, started to reach out to Joshua, as if to try and comfort him in his grief, but then withdrew it and bowed her head, wiping moisture from her eyes.
The silence was broken by Joshua's deep breath as he continued his story.
"I buried my family, then headed back to the mountains to gather the remainder of our flocks -- those which hadn't been scattered by the wild predators of the desert. I could no longer live in the wilderness as I had done all my life. For safety's sake, I would have to move into the nearest town and seek my living there.
"The journey was hard, and I lost many of my flock along the way. Finally, I reached a town.
"Upon arriving, I found a merchant willing to give a price for the remainder of my flocks. I used the money for clothing and shelter while I looked for employment.
"Luckily, I quickly found a job as a merchant's apprentice in a small shop along the town's main street. My wages were food and shelter. I considered this to be exactly what I needed at the time and worked very hard. Eventually I received more wages and more responsibility as I proved myself capable.
"Over the course of the last six years, my responsibilities, and my wages, have been steadily increased, yet the shop is still small.
"I had begun to get a taste of being successful and saw there was more to life than just getting by, as the merchant had done all his life.
"One day, in the shop, I overheard traveling merchants speak concerning a mysterious Merchant Prince, who was the most successful person in all of Galatia. The tales they told were, to me, quite unbelievable. They told of someone completely opposite of the rich men in my small town. After that day, I became changed. I did all I could to learn of you. And finally determined to seek you out. If half of what I had heard about you was true, then I was determined to be your next student.”
Joshua hesitated. He was prompted by something deep within to continue in boldness and speak the words now in his heart. They were different from what he had originally hoped to say, but now, this new desire prompting his words was more important to Joshua than anything else.
Taking another deep breath, and feeling his chest constrict with nervousness, he glanced around the table quickly to try and measure the reaction of what he was about to say.
"Now I have seen your family, I know the love you share is truly the greater wealth. After this, I care nothing for learning your secrets, but, I do beg of you. Teach me how to have this love for myself. I was sure I had lost it forever, but now, the thing I want most is to have it back again. I know you can teach me. I am willing to pay any price you ask if you will but consent to teach me!"
Joshua wanted this more than anything. If he could feel such love again, he would never want for anything. He may never be wealthy, but he didn't care. As long as could find a way to belong again: to truly belong. The last six years had been so lonely.
The Merchant Prince had a look of humorous mischief in his eyes Joshua didn’t understand. He angrily looked around the table to see if he'd missed some cruel joke. All eyes were directed toward the Merchant Prince, waiting for him to answer Joshua's plea.
After an uncomfortable silence, Joshua began to feel that he'd made a grave mistake. His fears surfaced again. He’d poured out his heart on deaf ears. Why did he think this was going to be any different? Then the Merchant Prince held up his hand as if to forestall anyone speaking.
"My young friend," the Merchant Prince began. "Your request is well made, and in light of your hard life, I am almost ready to grant your request immediately. There is one problem, however. You see, my secrets, as you refer to them, are the reason I have the love of my family as well as the material wealth most people make a great deal of. If I were to share with you how I can obtain the love of such wonderful people as my family, I would also have to share with you my secrets."
The Merchant Prince then became serious. He paused to drink from his glass and clear his throat before continuing.
"It has been told you correctly that each year I choose someone from among all the people, with whom I share these secrets. Many people have come as you have, and promised many gifts and large amounts of money in return. I turn them all away.
"You see, the person to whom I teach must be a special type of person; one I spend most of the year looking for. That person is made known to me only in special ways which I cannot predict until I see it occur.
"At this point, I'm afraid . . ."
"One moment, my husband," Allisa interrupted with a gentle touch to the Merchant Prince's arm. "Before you turn this young man away, you should know, he is the one I saw in the marketplace ."
Allisa's gaze rested upon Joshua with a warm and tender smile. Joshua was lost as to what was happening until Allisa explained.
"I saw your wonderfully unselfish act of purchasing the little girl's flowers. Of course you didn't know I was watching, but I could tell by the way you counted your money, you were spending the last of your resources in helping someone worse off than yourself.
"It touched me deeply to see someone who would have such compassion for a total stranger. When I returned home, I shared the story with my husband."
The Merchant Prince nodded. "When Allisa told me of what you had done, I too, was moved by your compassion for the little girl. In our world, there are many, many people who are so greedy they never stop to help anyone in need. This type of life destroys the soul. Even if such people do obtain riches, they cannot enjoy them. Their hearts are set so much upon material things, they never learn from whence true joy and happiness are found -- within your family, and the relationships you share with all people.
"As you yourself stated," the Merchant Prince continued, emotion rising in his voice. "He who has the love and loyalty of family and friends are the richest of all, regardless of how much wealth he possesses."
The Merchant Prince hesitated and cast a loving glance at his wife, and then gave a short playful little wink at Fahni before he continued.
"Joshua, you appear to be a little perplexed as to what we are talking about."
Indeed, Joshua was. He remembered buying the flowers from the little girl, but he was somewhat startled that anyone had noticed, especially the Merchant Prince's own wife. Still, he couldn't have passed by the small girl who seemed to be in much more need than he, and still feel comfortable with himself.
One thing Joshua did follow however, was the fact that the Merchant Prince had been about to turn him away after all his hopes and dreams had been focused on this meeting. It seemed that all was lost. The Merchant Prince had commended him on his helping the little girl. But he didn't need any reward for that. It was probably some way to make him feel better about being turned down.
"Joshua," the Merchant Prince said kindly, snapping Joshua out of his silent reflections. "Without realizing it, you have brought us a great gift tonight. It is not often when we are able to have such a noble person share our meal. What you have done is much greater than anything I have ever done, even with all my riches."
Joshua couldn't believe his ears. Was the Merchant Prince actually saying that he, Joshua, as poor as he was, was actually greater than the Merchant Prince, the most successful man in all Galatia? He opened his mouth to proclaim that this surely was not so, but the Merchant Prince again motioned him still.
"My friend, I do many things for the poor, it is true, but I do this out of my vast riches. You, however, have done much more than I have ever done. In your simple act of charity, you gave of everything you had to help another in need.
"Your act reminds me of another unselfish act of a man for whom I had great love."
Turning to his wife the Merchant Prince said tenderly, "Thank you, my dear, for not allowing me to make such a gross mistake."
Allisa squeezed his hand again and turned toward Joshua with glowing eyes. "Let me also thank you this night, Joshua, for sharing a meal and your story with us.
"Especially, I thank you for being the type of person you are. It gives me great joy to know there are still people such as you. Your Mother must have been a great woman to teach you such values that they would last with you throughout your lonely life."
At the mention of his mother, Joshua suddenly felt hot tears come into his eyes. It seemed that all the emotions he had buried for long years were now rushing forth for all to see. He tried to fight the tears, but the mention of his mother, whom he missed most of all, made the tears flow even more readily. Joshua bowed his head and wept uncontrollably.
Fahni, reached over to rest her hand on his, trying to comfort him. Allisa quickly got up from her seat and came around the table to wrap Joshua in a comforting embrace much like his mother had done many times in his youth. The Merchant Prince got up from his cushion, lifted Joshua to his feet, and to his surprise also embraced him. Joshua cried all the more from the love he felt. He couldn't believe these people, who barely knew him, could feel such love and compassion for him.
After the embrace, the Merchant Prince gently held Joshua back at arm’s length so he could look into his eyes.
"My son, my son." Great emotion filled the Merchant Prince's voice. "Please allow my family to replace the family you have lost. With us, you will always feel you belong. We want you to stay with us -- as a part of our family. Although we can never replace the family you have lost, allow us to share with you our love -- the love you have missed for so long."
Then with a little shake to emphasize his words, he said, "Welcome home . . . My son."
Casting a playful glance over to Allisa, then back to Joshua, the Merchant Prince continued, "I guess that means I'm going to teach you my secrets of success after all!"
Chapter 5
Joshua was awakened the next morning by a servant opening the draperies to let the early morning sun light the room. As Joshua wearily made his way to the tub, the servant informed him that the Merchant Prince would meet with him this morning for breakfast.
Joshua quickly recalled the events of the last evening. He never would have dreamed such good fortune could come his way. In coming to seek audience with the Merchant Prince to learn only of his secrets of success, he had not only been given his wish, but had also been taken in as one of the Merchant Prince's own family.
Recalling the great love he'd felt from the Merchant Prince and his family caused the tears to well up once again in his eyes.
Joshua climbed into the tub and began to wash the sleep and fatigue from his body. The rest of the evening, he couldn't really recall with any great detail. He'd been too stunned and drained by the strong emotions he had experienced.
One thing he did remember, however, was the short time he'd spent talking with Fahni quietly as she'd continued to ask him questions about his hometown. It probably wasn't anything, but to him, it was amazing someone so beautiful would be so caring, and freely welcome him as a new part of her family.
A short time later, Joshua was shown into a large room on the second floor of the Palace. On the far side of the room, he quickly saw it had a large balcony overlooking the palace gardens. The room was richly decorated with large trappings and wall murals. Along the walls were large ornate vases and other sculptures that added to the overall beauty of the room. Joshua crossed the marble floor over to the balcony where he could look out and see the gardens. Over the tall wall that surrounded the palace, he could see the hustle and bustle of the city beginning the business of the day.
Joshua was just in the process of pinching himself to make sure that he wasn't dreaming, when the Merchant Prince swung open the wide doors and strode into the room. He was followed by a servant bearing a large tray of fruit, rolls and drinks. The Merchant Prince stepped down into a sunken section of the room that was filled with cushions and quilts for sitting in comfort. He beckoned Joshua to join him as the servant deposited the tray on a nearby table and left the room, closing the doors behind him.
As Joshua stepped down and found a large cushion from which he could reach the fruit, the Merchant Prince said, "My son, I trust that you are well rested. The items we will discuss today require a keen and alert mind."
Taking a piece of fruit off the tray, and beckoning Joshua to help himself, he continued. "I have read again the message that you penned to me before I invited you to become a member of my family. In it you offered to work for me three years without any pay except room and board, if I would but teach you my secrets of success.
"In times past, when I have chosen one to whom I taught my principles of success, I have done so without obligation and without cost. I now make the same offer to you. You have no need to pay me, nor feel any obligation to me in any way. The payment I will receive from helping you, will be the joy that comes into my heart when you have succeeded in what your heart desires.
"Also," the Merchant Prince continued, "As a member of my family, you shall share in the bounties of what my family has. You may stay in the room you are in now. You will get some new clothing, for I see that you have but the one set you are wearing.
"I also invite you to share all our meals, and gatherings as a member of my family. It is as I said last night. You are now my son, and will be treated as such . . ."
The Merchant Prince hesitated a moment, then continued, "That is, if you wish to be part of my family. In my haste to make you one of my own, I didn't think that you may not wish to be a member of my family."
Joshua wasn't sure of what to say, but when one is speechless, it is best to speak honestly what is felt. "Oh Merchant Prince, I am very much in your debt for the many kindnesses which you have shown me since my arrival. Your invitation does me great honor, and I can think of nothing which would bring me greater happiness than to be considered a member of your family. Until last night, I did not realize how much I missed being part of a loving family. I only hope that I may be able to be worthy of the love and trust you and your family has placed in me."
Still a little bit uncertain of his words, and wishing earnestly not to offend the generosity of the Merchant Prince Joshua continued, "I do have but one request."
Smiling warmly, the Merchant Prince said, "Go ahead my son, tell me what it is that you wish."
He began pouring drinks and handed one to Joshua and kept one for himself which he began sipping gently.
Joshua leaned a little forward on his cushion and spoke, "As I was growing up, I was expected to take my place and work alongside my brothers and sisters for the family's benefit. I would request that you let me work for you, as I did for my family while they were yet alive. This would help me to know that I was in some small way adding to the hand that gives me clothing, food and shelter."
The Merchant Prince put down his chalice and said, "I expected no less from one such as you, my son. It will be so. Now, from here on, you are to consider me as a father, and join in as part of the family in all that we do."
The Merchant Prince picked up a piece of fruit and threw it to Joshua, who easily caught it in one hand. He bit into it, sucking the juices into his mouth to prevent them from dripping down his chin.
With a grin, the Merchant Prince also bit into a large ripened fruit and spoke as he chewed, "My wife and Fahni are also excited to have you as a part of the family. Fahni especially," he said with a mischievous twinkle in his eyes. "She now has the brother she has always wanted -- and a handsome one at that."
Joshua blushed at the mention of Fahni. Had the Merchant Prince noticed the two together last night? He wondered.
"Besides," the Merchant Prince continued, laughing, "I will need another man around the house to keep the girls from ganging up on me." With that, both the Merchant Prince and Joshua smiled, and the Merchant Prince reached over and gave Joshua an affectionate slap on the back.
The Merchant Prince stood up and began to pace back and forth across the marble floor as he gathered his thoughts. "Come now," he said suddenly with much enthusiasm. "Let us begin to teach you the so-called secrets of success, as I have promised."
Joshua started to rise to his feet, but the Merchant Prince motioned for him to stay seated. "I am only thinking, and I think best as I pace back and forth.
"Before I begin in teaching you, you must first understand some principles upon which my secrets of success are based. These truths I learned while I was yet in Jerusalem with my own parents.
"I left my Father's employ, much to his consternation, to follow a great teacher whom I very much admired and loved. It was he, from whom I learned these things.
My Father felt I was wasting my time, but I was searching for something that would give my life more meaning and happiness than just the continual pursuit of riches." The Merchant Prince stopped pacing and sat again on a cushion next to Joshua. He leaned back and closed his eyes as if reliving those times past.
"Many of the teachings of this man were considered revolutionary and heretical by the leaders of that day, and because of this, he was put to death." The Merchant Prince opened his eyes, and Joshua could see that it pained him to remember those troubled times.
"Shortly after his death, I came here to put into practice the teachings of this man. Even though I was always encouraged by my Teacher to spread what I'd learned with others, I found out quickly that the principles were so simple that people tended to laugh at my words and walk away. I found only a few, such as you, were humble enough to listen to the simple principles, and recognize the great power that they contain. They go contrary to what much of the wisdom of today teaches. But as you can see by the success I have enjoyed, these principles clearly work. They've worked for me, and for those few who have learned from me with the proper heart and mind."
The Merchant Prince turned and looked Joshua squarely in the eyes and continued, "Listen carefully to my words, ponder over their meaning, and you too will be able to see the power they contain.
"Don't discount their simplicity, but instead analyze them. Look within them and their meanings, and you will be able to see their great worth. As you implement these principles into your life, you will be able to benefit, as I have, from the principles of this great Teacher."
Again, the Merchant Prince got up from his cushion and walked over to the balcony. He stood gazing out over the city as he spoke.
"Many people make the mistake of thinking that success is measured only in terms of the wealth they acquire. As you realized last night, having great wealth is an empty happiness if there are no loved ones to share your life with.
"In fact, wealth has nothing to do with success."
Joshua was taken aback by the Merchant Prince's statement.
The Merchant Prince, seeing Joshua's reaction, smiled knowingly before continuing.
"Wealth comes only after you have already become successful at something. And then, only if wealth is what you have been seeking. Do not ever make the mistake of measuring someone's success by the amount of wealth they possess."
The Merchant Prince turned around and rested his hand upon a vase as he continued speaking. "Again, I refer to my teacher. He died a very poor man, but his success was counted in the people that he touched with his powerful life."
"As you can see," the Merchant Prince said, gesturing around the room with his hands, "judging by the effect his teachings had upon me, his teachings could have made him a very wealthy man indeed. Yet he spurned wealth for a greater mission. His success was, and will continue to be measured by the love and devotion to his teachings by a great many people. I know his success will continue to be felt down through all generations to come.
"Joshua, as you seek after success, in whatever form, see that you place first in importance, your love for your family -- your spouse, your children, and those nearest around you. Then, as you grow close to your family, and have their love and trust, you will already possess more wealth than many people now living. Success will come to you in forms that you can then enjoy and share with your family. If you try to do this in any other order, you risk losing not only your family, but also any riches that you may acquire along the way. "Riches are fleeting and cannot be taken past the grave, but the love of your family is Eternal."
Joshua considered what the Merchant Prince had said very carefully. It was in fact, somewhat different from what he had supposed, but to him, the Merchant Prince's words had the ring and feel of truth to them.
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