[Read more…] about The Spendthrift and The SwallowA man saw a Swallow early in the season and sold his coat. The weather turned cold again and the man bemoaned that it would kill him and the Swallow.
Don’t draw a conclusion based on a single observation.
The Charcoal Maker and The Cloth Cleaner
[Read more…] about The Charcoal Maker and The Cloth CleanerA charcoal maker invited a cloth cleaner to visit. The cleaner declined because as quickly as he could clean anything it would get dirty again.
Like people will work better together.
The Two Crabs
[Read more…] about The Two CrabsA child crab is berated by the parent crab for walking awkwardly. The child crab points out the parent should set the example.
Example is the best precept.
The Boy and His Mother
[Read more…] about The Boy and His MotherA Boy about to be executed for stealing went to his Mother and bit her ear. He then accused her of abetting his first crime which later led to the gallows.
We are made by our teachings in youth.
The Ape and her Two Young Ones
[Read more…] about The Ape and her Two Young OnesAn Ape had two babies. She lavished care on one and largely ignored the other. The ignored baby learned more about survival and did better in the world.
Sometimes it’s better to be an enemy rather than a friend.
The Master and His Scholar
[Read more…] about The Master and His ScholarA Schoolmaster found his Scholar hanging to a branch in the river. Scholar had tried to swim unaided before he could. The Master helped teach the lesson.
Know your abilities before attempting a task.