The Juggler of Notre Dame —

 

Once upon a time—yes, in the Middle Ages of France—there was a very poor man who was good at juggling and street performing. People called him “the juggler.” He made others laugh and brought joy to many people with his simple tricks.

 

After he joined a monastery, however, he began to feel troubled. The other monks could write beautiful poems, sing wonderful songs, or paint pictures as gifts to Mary. But the juggler could not read, he could not write songs, and he could not paint.

 

“I have nothing to offer… nothing at all,” he thought sadly.

 

One day, he suddenly realized something: “I *can* perform. Maybe I can give my art with all my heart.”

 

That night, when no one else was in the chapel, he stood in front of the statue of Mary. Then he began to perform the very best juggling he had ever done. He jumped, spun, and sent the balls into the air. His movements were more beautiful than ever, filled with honesty and pure heart.

 

A few monks happened to see him and shouted, “What are you doing? Stop that!” But at that very moment, something amazing happened.

 

The statue of Mary gently smiled. It was as if she understood the juggler’s true heart.

 

The juggler fell quietly to the floor. For the first time in his life, he felt truly accepted. With a peaceful smile, he passed away.

 

This story may look religious at first, but the miracle itself is not the main point.

 

The important messages of the story are these:
● People can make others happy with the gifts they already have.
● What matters most is not the size of your talent, but the love in your heart.
● You do not need to compare yourself with others. Do your best in your own way.
● A sincere heart always reaches someone — and can even save you.

 

This is why *The Juggler of Notre Dame* is a story that touches everyone, not only Christians. The juggler did not have special powers, but his honest and wholehearted way of living was the most beautiful gift of all.