' Leave the desires '...

The Sufi sage Abdulalim of Fez refused to teach, but from time to time
would advise people about the way to proceed on the Path.

One day a disciple, who was both incapable of learning and
regularly driven abnormal by attending 'mystical ceremonies,' visited
him.

He asked: "How can I best profit from the teachings of the sages?"

The Sufi said: "I am happy to be able to tell you that I have an
infallible method which corresponds to your capacity."

"And what is that, if I am allowed to hear it?"

"Simply stop up your ears and think about radishes."

"Before, during or after the lectures and exercises?"

"Instead of attending any of them."



-as collected by Idries Shah