Lost in the forest, a lion cub sees a set of footprints and follows it, believing that it will lead him to a lion’s den. To his dismay, however, he finds a flock of ostrich.Distraught, the cub follows another set of footprints. After walking for a long time, he sees a herd of elephants. Discouraged, the cub nevertheless follows another set of footprints. But alas! It leads him to a pack of wolves. At this, the owl gives him an advice, “Your destination is determined by the footprints you follow. Follow a lion’s footprints and you will find yourself in a lion’s den.”
The next morning, the cub does just that. Ignoring other sets of footprints, he searches meticulously for a lion’s footprints. Finding a set, he follows it – and finally finds himself in a lion’s den.
The Vedic principles (mahajano yena gatah sa panthah [Chaitanya-caritamrita Madhya-lila 17.186]) urge us to follow in the footsteps of great liberated souls. In this way we can receive benefit in both this life and the next, and we can also improve our material life. By following the principles laid down by great sages and saints of the past, we can very easily understand the aim of all life.
"Art of Living stories" 