A man was complaining to a sage about the troubles and problems in his life.

“Sometimes I wonder if they will ever end. Most of the time they are not big, they are only irritants. Yet I am not at peace. Will I ever be free of them?” he asked.

“Perhaps these irritants will remain,” replied the sage. “But while you are waiting, consider this. Oysters use the invading sand grain irritant to make the precious pearl. What are you doing with yours?”

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