The Weight of Reason
In a bustling kingdom, a wise king observed various competitors demonstrating their strength. Among them was a young man who confidently brought an elephant, believing it would impress the king. His ambition, however, was about to be challenged by an unlikely contender—a small ant.
As the competition commenced, the elephant lifted an impressive weight. The spectators cheered, convinced that the elephant’s strength would secure victory. However, as the young man celebrated, the focus shifted to a small ant that began carrying a weight significantly heavier than itself, even while facing obstacles.
After witnessing the ant’s unwavering determination, the king smiled and said, “You will be my minister.” The onlookers were skeptical and protested, arguing that the elephant did the heavier lifting. The king calmly replied, “Yes, the elephant lifted the most weight, but the ant demonstrated resilience by lifting a load ten times its size without giving up.” He continued, “This young man understands the value of hard work and will keep my subjects happy. Unlike you, who merely focus on power, this is true reasoning.”
With that, the king appointed the young man as his minister, recognizing the importance of perseverance and a sense of reasoning in leadership. From that day forward, the realm was led by a minister who acknowledged effort and resilience as key principles in guiding the people.
~ By Giridharan Jagannathan
[November 2002]
[Chandamama]
