The Athenian and the Theban
Long ago, a rich Athenian and a poor Theban living in Ancient Greece went on a journey together. During the journey, the two men began chatting joyfully, dreaming of great things. The Athenian man boasted of his hometown's riches and spoke grand words. The Theban man listened calmly and gave humble answers.
Suddenly, a terrible and armed bandit appeared in front of them. In a threatening voice, the bandit demanded money from both travelers. Trembling with fear, the Athenian man immediately fell to his knees and began to cry. "Please have mercy on me, I will give you all my riches, but spare my life!" begged the Athenian. The brave Theban man, without losing his composure, immediately grabbed his stick. Determined, the Theban man marched toward the bandit and managed to scare him away.
After the danger passed, the Athenian man stood up from the ground with shame. The Theban man smiled and looked at his Athenian friend. "Speaking grand words is not enough to protect a person in times of danger," said the Theban. "A person's courage and actions are more valuable than their words," he added. After this lesson, the rich Athenian never engaged in empty boasting again.
In difficult moments, bold actions matter, not grand words. Actions speak louder than words. Talking will not get the job done. Blowing will not extinguish the fire.