Long ago in China there was an emperor who was unnecessarily harsh, even to his own people. Some of his advisors were Buddhist monks who understood the connection between a person’s diet and their mental and physical health. They wanted the emperor to become vegetarian to help him become a more peaceful person, but they didn’t dare suggest that to him. Instead they designed a cuisine where they were able to recreate any meat dish using vegetarian ingredients. From roast duck to seafood, all the dishes were realistic in taste, appearance and texture. The emperor went on eating all his favourite dishes, never guessing that they were vegetable based. The story goes that over time his temper cooled and he became a much more peaceful person, benefitting himself and his subjects!
Gayatri
Australian School of Meditation and Yoga
