A Zen Buddhist master was about to take his daily walk through the garden when one of his students approached him. "Master," he said. "May my friend and I join you on your walk through the garden?" "Of course, young one." So, off the three of them went. As they were walking along, the friend of the young student casually mentioned, "nice garden."

When they finished their walk through the garden, the Zen Buddhist master told the young student, "It is okay if you wish to walk with me through the garden again, but please do not invite your friend. He talks too much."