The Donkey and the Lapdog
Once upon a time, there was a farmer who owned a little dog and a donkey. The dog was constantly by the farmer's side, enjoying a life of comfort and luxury. On the other hand, the donkey lived in a warm stable and was well-fed with fresh grain and sweet hay. However, the donkey couldn't help but feel envious of the dog's privileged position. "I work tirelessly all day, hauling wood and pulling the cart to the market," the donkey grumbled. "Meanwhile, the dog sleeps on our master's lap and eats from his plate. It's not fair!" The donkey couldn't shake off this feeling of discontent. He thought to himself, "Perhaps if I behaved like the dog, my master would reward me with the same life of ease." With this thought in mind, the donkey hatched a plan. That very night, while the farmer was having supper, the donkey crept out of the stable and made his way into the house. He observed the dog's behavior and decided to imitate it. "First, I'll chase my tail just like the dog does," the donkey thought. And so, he danced around the room, flinging up his hooves and causing chaos. The table toppled over, and the dishes went flying. Emboldened by his actions, the donkey decided to take it a step further. "Now, I'll sit on the master's lap," he declared, putting his hooves up on the farmer's chair. But instead of receiving the same affection and attention as the dog, the donkey was met with fear and panic. "Help! Save me from this mad beast!" the terrified farmer cried out. His servants came running and, with shouts and blows, drove the donkey back to the stable. As the donkey sat alone in the stable, nursing his wounds, he couldn't help but reflect on his actions. "I suppose I'm a fine donkey," he lamented, "but I'll never be a lapdog." In this tale, we learn the importance of embracing our own strengths and being content with who we are. Trying to be someone else only leads to disappointment and trouble. The donkey realized that he had a purpose and value of his own, even if it wasn't the same as the dog's. And from that day forward, he learned to appreciate his life as a hardworking donkey, knowing that he was valued for his contributions to the farm. So, let us remember the lesson of the donkey and the lapdog - be proud of who you are and embrace your unique qualities.