A group of travelers was enjoying a boat ride on the river. Among them was a servant who had never been on a boat before. Terrified of drowning, he cried out in fear. His constant crying and fear were very annoying to the others.
No matter how much they tried to calm him, the servant continued to cry. An experienced and wise man on the boat saw this and approached the travelers. He asked, “If you allow, I can help calm this frightened servant.” The group agreed immediately.
The wise man instructed the others to throw the crying servant into the river. They obeyed and tossed him into the water. After the servant had struggled and swallowed a few gulps of water, the wise man ordered them to pull him back into the boat.
Once back on the boat, the servant, who had been crying in fear moments before, sat quietly and calmly in a corner. The travelers, puzzled by this sudden change, asked the wise man, “Why did you throw him into the river, and how did it help?”
The wise man replied, “He had never experienced the hardship of struggling in the water. He couldn’t appreciate the safety and comfort of the boat. Now that he has felt the terror of drowning, he understands how safe he is here and has become quiet and peaceful.”
The travelers nodded, realizing the wisdom in the man’s actions. Sometimes, those who have never faced hardship cannot truly appreciate the comforts they have. This story teaches us to value even the smallest blessings and always be grateful.
Moral of the Story: Those who have never faced hardship may not appreciate the comforts they have. Gratefulness comes from understanding both suffering and comfort. Appreciate the little blessings in life and thank God for them.
