Once upon a time, people lived happily under a king’s rule. All the kingdom’s people were very happy as they led an extremely flourishing life with abundant wealth and no tragedies.
One fine day, the king decided to go and see places of historical importance and pilgrim centres in remote places. He decided to walk on foot to also engage with his people. People from far-off areas were very pleased to discuss with their king. They were cheering that their king had a kind heart.
After some weeks of travel, the king returned to the royal residence. He was quite happy that he had visited many historical sites and pilgrims and witnessed his people leading a prosperous life. However, there was one thing the king regretted.
He had intolerable pain in his feet as it was his first journey by foot, covering a long distance. He protested to his ministers that the roads were uncomfortable and extremely stony. He can not endure the pain. He said he felt very sorry for the people who had to walk on the road daily as it would also be uncomfortable for them!
After considering all this, he ordered his slaves to cover the roads in the entire country with natural leather to ensure that the people of his kingdom could walk comfortably.
The king’s ministers were surprised to hear his order as it would indicate that countless cows would have to be slaughtered to get an adequate quantity of natural leather. Also, it would certainly set you back a massive amount of cash.
Ultimately, a wise man from the ministry came to the king and said he could suggest another idea. The king asked what the alternative was. The minister claimed, “As opposed to covering the roads with leather, why don’t you simply have a chunk of leather cut in appropriate shape to cover your feet?”
The king was very much amazed by his suggestion and praised the minister’s knowledge. He also got a set of natural leather shoes for himself and asked all his fellow citizens to use shoes.
Moral: We should change ourselves instead of trying to change the world.
Note: Want to know how to be effective in daily conversation?
Then let’s read Common Situations of Conversation.
