India, Feb. 8 -- My teacher recounted the story of Queen Chudala of the Malava kingdom. Chudala spent the morning in meditation, and aided King Sikidvaj in governing the kingdom during the day. The King thought the Queen was only wasting her time in meditation. However, as the days passed, he saw the Queen was radiant and calm even after her meditation, and her decisions improved the kingdom's governance. Envious of her state, the King said that he would give up his kingdom, and retreat to the forest to meditate and be calm and at peace. The King entrusted the kingdom to Queen Chudala and left for the forests.

Many years passed, and the Queen knew in her heart that Sikidvaj was still not at peace. She dressed like a saint, and went to me...