The Man’s Pride
Once upon a time, in a far-off land, there lived a proud man named Theodore. He thought he was stronger and better than all other creatures.
The Lion’s Wrath
One sunny day, while Theodore was walking through the forest, he stumbled upon a majestic lion. This lion, having been disturbed from a peaceful rest, let out a loud roar of anger.
The Man’s Fear
Suddenly, Theodore felt very scared. He knew he couldn’t outmatch the forest’s king and made a run for it, leaving the angry lion far behind.
The Lion’s Thoughts
After the encounter, our lion, still hidden among the trees, watched Theodore’s hurried escape. He couldn’t help but ponder, “Has this man ever felt a gentle hand or a kind word?” It seemed to the lion that perhaps fear and pride were all Theodore knew.
The Lion’s Decision
Moved by these thoughts, the lion made up his mind. He wouldn’t scare Theodore further but instead show him a different path, one lined with compassion and understanding. So, with careful steps, the lion began to follow Theodore, blending into the shadows.
The Lion’s Plan
Observing from afar, the lion noticed how isolated Theodore was. Villagers would either avoid him or greet him with cold stares. It became clear; the lion had to help Theodore experience the warmth of kindness, hoping it would melt his icy pride.
The Lion’s Test
Now, the lion, clever and wise, thought hard about how to help Theodore learn. So, he left a small, injured bird right where he knew Theodore would walk. “Will he help?” the lion wondered, watching from a distance.
The Man’s Trials
At first, Theodore walked right past the bird, lost in his own thoughts. But something made him stop, turn around, and look at the tiny creature. Remembering the fear he felt when he met the lion, Theodore gently picked up the bird. He cared for it until it could fly again.
With every day that passed, the lion presented new trials. One day, it was a thirsty deer; another, a lost bear cub. Theodore found his heart growing as he helped each one.
The Man’s Reward
As time went on, Theodore’s kindness did not go unnoticed. Villagers started seeing him in a new light, talking to him, and even asking for his help. They saw not a proud man, but a kind one.
The lion, seeing the change, knew his work was done. Theodore had learned compassion, not through words, but through actions. And Theodore? He found joy not in pride, but in the love he gave and received.