The Traveler and the Donkey: A Lesson in Priorities

It was a scorching summer day, and a weary traveler hired a donkey for his journey. The donkey’s owner followed closely behind to guide the animal. By noon, the blazing sun made the journey unbearable, so they decided to rest.

Looking around, they found no shade except for the donkey’s shadow. The traveler sat down in the shadow to escape the heat, but the owner objected.

“You cannot sit there,” the owner said, “I need the shade too.”

The traveler protested, “I’ve paid for the donkey, so the shadow is mine as well.”

The owner snapped back, “You paid for the ride, not for the shadow!”

The argument escalated as neither was willing to back down. As they bickered, they became so distracted that they didn’t notice the donkey growing restless. Taking advantage of their quarrel, the donkey broke free and bolted away, disappearing into the distance.

Both the traveler and the owner were left standing in the sweltering heat, their petty fight costing them the donkey and its shade.

Moral: Avoid fighting over trivial matters. Quarreling over small issues can lead to losing something far more valuable.