solimond

The parable:

So once, there was this king. He was rich, and had servants, jewels, women... in short, everything he thought he wanted. Still, he was unsettled. So he sent for his wisemen. To them, he said: "I want you to bring me something that will make me happy when I am sad, and sad when I am happy."

After exchanging some puzzled looks, the wisemen departed to think. Some time later, they returned with a small box. In it, the king discovered, was a ring. Somewhat confused, he asked the wisemen how this simple band of gold was to make him happy when he felt sad, and sad when he felt happy. They indicated that he should read the inscription on the ring. It said:

This too shall pass.


Tune in soon, when I will give the ultimate number puzzle!