In English
Once a disciple of Socrates stood up to ask a question. He asked Socrates, “God has given man a lifespan of a hundred years which may be divided into four parts. The first 25 years of the lifespan are spent in sports and enjoyment. During the next 25 years, he has to shoulder the family burden. Responsibilities towards his children and their future consume the next 25 years. During the last 25 years, one is worried about his bank balance. Thus, man has no time to think about God. If God would give man another 25 years, he could think of Him.” Socrates was sitting silent listening to this. He wanted to give him the practical lesson. So, he pretended to cry. “What is the reason for your grief?” asked the disciple. Socrates replied, “Three-fourths of this earth is covered by ocean water, and the remaining portion is made up of mountains, forests, cities and villages. There is no place for me to stand, since the whole earth is covered.” The disciple said, “Sir, when there are of beings living on earth, can you not find a place to stand?” Then Socrates gave him a sharp reply, “When you have 100 years as your lifespan, how is it that you have no time to think of God? This is nothing but laziness.”