The Stonecutter’s Quarry

A stonecutter had two areas in the mountain quarry where he worked. One section was untouched stone, though suitable for carving. The other was a cluttered corner, overgrown and crowded.

Whenever the stonecutter considered working the untouched stone, he hesitated, doubtful it would yield a masterpiece. But each day he delayed putting chisel to stone, the rock remained unshaped.

Whenever the stonecutter considered clearing the cluttered corner, he wavered, doubtful that the effort would be worthwhile. But each day he left the mess untouched, the corner became more choked.

One morning, the stonecutter realized his doubts had led to inaction. So, he resolved to change his ways. He began carving the untouched stone, though unsure what beauty would emerge. And he cleared away the cluttered debris, though unsure what would be revealed.

Before long, exquisite shapes began to flow from the once-virgin rock. And within the cluttered corner, a magnificent vein of prized marble appeared. By boldly beginning, the stonecutter had transformed both areas from useless to inspiring.

When in doubt, take action. Shape the unformed places and clear the cluttered spaces. For though the outcome may be unclear, through effort and vision possibility takes form. Only by daring to do we turn doubt into creation.