A Precious Life: A story about respect for all beings. A Jataka Tale, illustrated by Rosalyn White

A hunter pursuing a deer falls from his horse and is trapped in a deep ravine. Seeing the hunter's plight, the deer risks his own life to carry him to safety. Astounded, the hunter respects the deer's wish that all forest creatures be safe from his arrows and resolves to become their protector.

Revised, with parents and teachers corner.

The Jataka Tales celebrate the power of action motivated by compassion, love, wisdom, and kindness. The Teach that all we think and do profoundly affects the quality of our lives. Selfish words and deeds bring suffering to us and to those around us, while selfless actions contribute to a lighter, more joyful way of being that has the potential to uplift all forms of life.

The Jataka Tales, first related by the Buddha over two thousand years ago, bring to light his many lifetimes as an embodiment of great compassion, the great being appears in many forms and places to ease the suffering of living beings. Thus the Jataka Tales are filled with heroes of all kinds, each demonstrating the power of compassion and wisdom to transform any situation.