A massive oak tree with branches that reached far into the sky stood proudly in the middle of a verdant woodland. All the animals in the forest respected the oak because of its power and knowledge. A mild wind would blow across the woodland every day, caressing the oak leaves.
One day the oak said, “Why do you move so softly?” “I stand tall and firm, unshaken by the strongest winds.”
With a smile, the breeze answered, “Being strong doesn’t necessarily mean having to hold fast. Sometimes, it’s important to be understanding and adaptable.”
The tree grumbled, “If you had my strength, you wouldn’t bend to every gust that comes your way.”
Seasons passed, and then one day a powerful storm made landfall. Howling in the wind, the trees of
“True strength lies in knowing when to stand tall and when to bend,” murmured the air. Even the worst storms can’t stop those who are flexible and modest.”
Moral: Often, humility and flexibility are more potent than haughtiness and might. We can overcome the most difficult obstacles in life by knowing when to adapt.