Convinced that the principles of philosophy could withstand any assault, the sage readily entertained inquiries from far and wide. Once a problem was brought to his attention, the two men involved duly seated before him awaiting hs words that would settle the dispute.
"The story is such and so," began the first, "and he has to do this and he has to do that." He gives a fine account and argues his case clearly.
The sage declares, "You're, right, my son."
Next, the other man presents his side. He speaks with such passion and persuasion that the sage says to him,
"You're right, my son."
After they leave, the sage's wife is distraught and announces to her husband,
"They have conflicting stories. How can you say that both of them are right? When one wins, the other must lose."
The sage ponders this idea intently, then finally replies,
"You know, you're right ..."