The Farmer and the Stork – Aesop’s Fables
In a peaceful meadow, there was a Stork, a bird renowned for its purity of heart. On a sunny day, a playful bunch of Cranes coaxed him to a newly sown field for a fun outing. However, the day didn’t end well. The Farmer’s tricky net ensnared every bird, leaving none untouched.
Panicking, the Stork appealed to the Farmer, “Kind sir, please let me go. Storks, as you might know, are always truthful and of high morals. I was clueless about the Cranes’ sneaky plans.”
But the Farmer, with a hint of regret in his eyes, responded, “You might be innocent, but you were found with those mischievous Cranes. Unfortunately, you’ll face the same consequences as them.”
Often, it’s the company we keep that defines how the world sees us.
What principles and lessons can be learned from the above stories?
The tale of the Trusting Stork and the Cautious Farmer holds a mirror to society’s judgments and perceptions. Often, we are evaluated not just by our actions but by the company we keep. The innocent Stork, despite its noble intentions, faced consequences because of its association with the deceptive Cranes. This narrative underscores the importance of being discerning in our choices of companionship. Just as the Stork was ensnared due to the Cranes’ mischief, we too can find ourselves in unwarranted situations because of the people we associate with. The tale beautifully captures the essence of the proverb: “Birds of a feather flock together,” urging readers to be cautious and mindful in choosing their flock.