A Camel was asked if he preferred to go up-hill or down-hill. The Camel asked back if the flat way through the desert was closed? Wise Camel.
Foresake the hard when an easier way is available.
Townsend version
An Arab camel-driver, after completing the loading of his Camel, asked him which he would like best, to go up hill or down. The poor beast replied, not without a touch of reason: “Why do you ask me? Is it that the level way through the desert is closed?”
Perry #287