A carter was driving a wagon along a country lane when the wheels sank deep into a rut. The rustic driver, stupefied and aghast, stood looking at the wagon and did nothing but utter loud cries to Hercules for assistance.
According to legend, Hercules appeared and addressed him, saying, "Put your shoulders to the wheels, my man. Goad on your bullocks, and never pray to me for help again until you have done your best to help yourself. Otherwise, you can be sure that your prayers will be in vain."
This tale reminds us that self-help is the best help.
The moral
One must take initiative and make an effort to solve their problems before seeking external help.
Discussion questions
- Why do you think the carter chose to cry for help instead of trying to solve the problem himself?
- What might have happened if Hercules had simply lifted the wagon out of the rut?
- Can you think of a time when you faced a challenge and had to rely on your own efforts to overcome it?
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Read it in another language
Good night.
Tomorrow night: The Fox and the Crane
