The Obstacle on the Road

(An Ancient Parable, retold)

Long ago, in a far-off kingdom surrounded by mountains and rivers, a wise king wanted to test the character of his people.

One night, he had a massive boulder placed in the middle of the main road leading into the city. Then he hid nearby to watch what would happen.

At dawn, a wealthy merchant approached with a cart of goods. Seeing the boulder, he scoffed, cursed the government for neglecting the roads, and turned away.

Later, a nobleman rode up on horseback. He too stopped, complained loudly, and rode around it, his fine boots avoiding the dust.

Many villagers came and went, each grumbling, but none attempting to move the obstacle.

Finally, as the sun dipped low, a poor peasant approached. Tired and dusty from a day’s labor, he set down his bundle. He examined the boulder, and with great effort, began to push and strain. His hands bled. His back ached.

After a long while, he managed to move the boulder just off the road.

Underneath it, he found a small leather pouch. Inside were several gold coins and a note from the king:

“This reward is for the one who cares enough to remove the obstacle. Every challenge is an opportunity in disguise.”

Sadece sevgi,

CDHR