The Mountain

I was going on a journey. I went up a steep, winding trail that led to a mountain. When I reached the top of the hill, I saw a campfire burning. The air smelled fresh and clear. I sat down to warm myself when a man came out of a cave. He was old, with a long beard. We talked a while, and then I asked him, ''What is the most valuable thing in life?''

''I cannot give you an answer, but a gift will tell you.'' He went into his cave and came back. He gave me a heart. ''Love is your answer,'' he said.

As I went down the mountain, I waved.