The Tortoise and the Eagle
Traditional Fable by: Aesop
Source: Aesop's Fables
In a sunlit meadow at the edge of a great forest, a tortoise watched with longing as an eagle soared high above the trees, gliding effortlessly on the wind. The tortoise, slow and earthbound, grew envious of the eagle’s freedom and grace.
“How wonderful it must be to fly!” the tortoise sighed to his friend the grasshopper. “If only I could leave the ground and see the world from above.”
Day after day, the tortoise gazed upward, dreaming of flight. He grew restless and dissatisfied with his slow, steady life on the ground. Finally, unable to contain his desire, he approached the eagle as she rested on a branch.
“Please, mighty eagle,” begged the tortoise, “teach me to fly! I am tired of crawling and wish to soar like you.”
The eagle, amused but also a little concerned, replied, “Tortoise, you are not made for the sky. Your shell is heavy, and your feet are for walking, not flying.”
But the tortoise insisted, promising rewards and pleading until the eagle finally agreed. “Very well,” said the eagle, “but remember, not all wishes bring happiness.”
The eagle grasped the tortoise in her talons and carried him high into the air. The wind rushed past, and the tortoise felt a thrill of excitement. But when the eagle let go, hoping the tortoise would enjoy the view, he tumbled helplessly, unable to control his fall.
He crashed to the ground, his shell cracking from the impact. As he lay there, dazed and hurt, the tortoise realized the folly of wishing for things beyond his nature.
From that day on, the tortoise learned to appreciate his own gifts—his sturdy shell, his patience, and his steady pace. He watched the eagle with admiration, but no longer with envy.
Moral: Be careful what you wish for, and do not desire things beyond your nature. True happiness comes from accepting yourself and your own strengths.
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