When Guru Nanak neared a city, the holy men already living there sent him a cup of milk filled right to the very brim — meaning, without words, “Our city is already full of holy people; there is no room for more.”
Guru Nanak smiled. He gently laid a single jasmine flower on top of the milk, so it floated there without spilling a drop.
His silent reply meant: “Just as this flower adds its fragrance without crowding the cup, I come only to add a little sweetness, not to take anyone's place.” The holy men welcomed him warmly.