A Buddha walked with his many disciples through the same village. Several men, his opponents, gathered together and began to insult the Buddha in a fierce and evil way. He listened very quietly. And because of that calm they became somewhat uncomfortable. There was an uncomfortable feeling: they insult the person, and he listened to their words, like music. Something is wrong here. One of them said to the Buddha:
What is the matter? Do you not understand what we are saying?
"It is with understanding that such a deep silence is possible," replied the Buddha, "If you came to me ten years ago, I would have rushed to you. There was no understanding. Now I understand. Because of your stupidity, I can’t punish myself. It is up to you to decide whether to offend me or not, but to accept your offenses or not – that is my freedom. You cannot impose them on me. I just reject them; they are not worth it. You can take them for yourself.
Now my students will leave you.