One day, Krishna wanted to test the wisdom of his friends. He first called upon King Duryodana, a ruler known for his cruelty and stinginess. In his kingdom, the subjects lived in fear.
Krishna said to Duryodana:
“Travel the world and find me a truly good person.”
“Yes, my lord,” Duryodana replied, and set off on his journey. Traveling the world, he met various people, talked to many, spent a great deal of time, only to return with the news that he had not found the person he was looking for.
“My lord, all people are selfish and wicked. I regret, I did not find the one you wished for.”
Krishna dismissed Duryodana and called upon another king, Dharmaraja.
Dharmaraja was a ruler known for his generosity and kindness. His subjects loved him.
“King,” Krishna said, “I would like you to travel the world and find a truly evil person.”
“Yes, my lord,” Dharmaraja said, and set off on his journey. Traveling the world, he met various people, talked to many,
He spoke with many, spent a great deal of time, only to return with the news that he had not found the man he was looking for.
“My Lord, I could not fulfill your wish,” the king said humbly. “For I have met people who are misled, impulsive, and blinded, but nowhere did I come across a truly wicked man. Everyone I encountered is good at heart, despite their flaws.”
Vesna Krmpotić, Stories
Selected by: Anastazija Pulja