Diogenes tries to cross a flooded river.
Chambry (Fable Title)
Note: The Chambry collection is published in Greek. AI was used to translate the Greek to this text:
Diogenes, while journeying, came to a river that was in flood, and he stood by the crossing-place in perplexity. But one of those accustomed to carry people across, seeing him troubled, approached, lifted him up, and with kindness carried him over. He stood there blaming his own poverty, because of which he was unable to repay his benefactor. Yet while he was thinking these things, the ferryman, noticing another traveler unable to cross, ran up and carried him over as well. Then Diogenes approached him and said: “Well then, I no longer feel gratitude to you for what has happened; for I see that you do this not by judgment, but out of compulsion.”
The fable shows that those who help both the worthy and the unworthy alike do not earn the reputation of beneficence, but rather are charged with thoughtlessness.
How do you think an AI might simplify this fable? Here is one answer, and the illustration above was made from this simplification:
Diogenes came to a wide, raging river and could not cross. A kind ferryman carried him over. At first, Diogenes felt grateful, though ashamed he could not pay. But when he saw the ferryman rush back to help anyone at all, he realized it was not true kindness, but a habit done without care. Thus, when good deeds are given without thought, they lose their worth.
Moral
True generosity comes from thoughtful choice, not mindless habit.
Perry. #247