The Noble Tortoise
There’s a Proverb, “Sail beyond seas to search for wealth.” Three merchants had gone aboard a ship in search of wealth. But, misfortune had struck them. The ship they sailed in crashed in high waters. They were about to drown.
A tortoise that swam there saw the pathetic state of the merchants and came to their help. “Sit on my back, gentlemen. I shall take you to the shore.” The merchants were relieved. “Thank you, big tortoise.
We shall never forget your help,” they said in unison. The tortoise carried them on his back and started swimming to the shore.
Half way through, the merchants were feeling terribly hungry. They could no longer bear the hunger. “I have to eat some food,” each one started crying in a feeble voice. If you are feeling so hungry, why not you eat me and live? asked the tortoise.
Of course we are very hungry, and your offer is nice. But, we are already in gratitude for your help. We cannot eat you and save our lives that you have given us.
We shall control our hunger till we reach the shore.” replied the wisest of the merchants. The tortoise was touched by their gratitude. He swam as fast as he could and took them ashore quickly.
Conclusion:
Moral: Gratitude is More Powerful than Personal Wish