|
The Oak Tree and the Bamboo Tree
(a wisdom story adapted from Aesop’s fables; it has its variants in Chinese proverbs and stories from Mediterranean cultures) Once upon a time, in a serene forest there stood a bamboo and a mighty oak tree standing side by side. The bamboo looked small and fragile in comparison to the oak tree’s strength and size. When the wind blew through the forest, the oak tree stood rigid and firm. However, the bamboo yielded, bent, and swayed with the wind. One summer, a very powerful storm struck the forest, unleashing lightning, torrential rain, and howling winds. The extreme winds broke the oak's branches, cracked its trunk, uprooting it and then crashing into the ground. However, the bamboo once again danced with the wind and was unharmed. After the storm passed, the curious animals of the forest asked the bamboo, “Why did the sturdy oak break and fall? We thought strength and size was an advantage as a defense against powerful storms.” The bamboo replied, “The oak tree may be strong and sturdy, but when a mighty storm comes, rigidity becomes weakness.” “You see, strength is not just about resisting,” the bamboo continued. “Sometimes strength lies in one’s ability to accept and welcome life’s storms and challenges with an open heart. It includes one’s ability to bend gracefully, to be flexible, to adapt and embrace change. Remember, bending with life’s winds doesn’t make you weak—it makes you resilient.” |
|
REFLECTION QUESTIONS
- What did you find to be the most important part of the story? What resonated with you?
- What experiences have you had that is close to this story?
- Where do you find yourself in this story? Which part of the story is about you?
