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The Ass and the Horse
fable
1 min read
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Story Summary
In the engaging moral tale "The Ass and the Horse," an Ass requests a small portion of feed from a Horse, who promises to provide more later. However, the Ass doubts the sincerity of the Horse's promise, suggesting that those who refuse to help with simple requests are unlikely to offer greater favors in the future. This short moral story illustrates the simple lesson that true generosity is shown through immediate acts of kindness, not empty promises.
Click to reveal the moral of the story
The moral of the story is that one should be cautious of those who refuse to help in small matters, as they are unlikely to offer greater assistance later.
Historical Context
This fable, attributed to Aesop, illustrates themes of inequality and cynicism regarding the promises of those in power. Originating in ancient Greece, Aesop's fables often feature anthropomorphized animals and convey moral lessons, with this particular story highlighting the skepticism towards the altruism of the more privileged, a sentiment that resonates across various cultures and retellings throughout history. The narrative underscores the idea that one should not expect generosity from those who are unwilling to share even a small kindness.
Our Editors Opinion
This fable highlights the importance of trust and the reliability of promises in relationships. In modern life, we often encounter situations where someone in a position of power may offer future benefits while withholding immediate help, prompting skepticism about their true intentions. For instance, in a workplace scenario, an employee may be promised support or recognition by a manager who is currently unwilling to assist them with a pressing issue, leading the employee to doubt the sincerity of the manager's future commitments.
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Other names for this story
"Greedy Horse, Wise Ass", "Lessons in Generosity", "The Ass's Dilemma", "Horses and Hopes", "Dignity vs. Kindness", "Promises of Plenty", "Feeding Friendships", "The Tale of Two Beasts"
Did You Know?
This fable highlights the theme of skepticism towards false promises and the importance of trust in relationships, illustrating how those in power may exploit their position rather than genuinely help those in need. The Ass's wariness reflects a broader lesson about the reliability of those who prioritize their own dignity over compassion.
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