There once stood a tree unlike any other in a little community tucked between verdant hills. Its leaves glistened in the sunshine, and its bark gave off a golden sheen. The people of the village thought that whomever touched the tree with a pure heart would get their greatest desire come true.
One day, word of the Golden Tree got out there. People came to the town from all across the country in the hopes of having their desires granted. Eager to touch the tree and fulfill their aspirations, they formed a queue. Rich merchants want greater money, farmers desired larger harvests, and scholars desired limitless knowledge.
Amira, a young, impoverished girl, was one of them. She lacked any greatDespite its beauty, the Golden Tree never granted wishes for material or political power. Rather, it gave a response to Amira’s sincere need for kindness. The villagers quickly came to understand that their common virtue, rather than wealth or knowledge, was the true treasure.
Moral: Generosity, both given and received, is the true measure of riches.
