The Two Suitors
Once upon a time, a wise merchant lived beside an old forest where cool waters flowed. This merchant had a beautiful daughter who was clever and full of kindness. When the girl reached the age of marriage, two different young men from the town asked for her hand. The rich suitor was proud and arrogant, while the poor suitor was humble and hardworking. The wise father decided to test the two young men in order to secure his daughter's future. The father gave the two young men three days to find and bring the most valuable treasure in nature.
The rich young man went to the gold merchants and bought the biggest diamond with his wealth. He was sure that the shine of the diamond would enchant everyone and that he would win the contest easily. The poor young man, however, set out taking only a bag of seeds and a cup of water. At the end of the third day, both suitors came before the wise man. The rich young man showed his jewel and said, “This is the most valuable treasure in the world!” The poor young man planted his green sapling and said, “The real treasure is this life that grows with labor.”
The girl felt a deep admiration at the young man's meaningful answer. The wise father also smiled and praised the poor young man's mind and sincerity. The wise merchant reminded everyone that the things bought with money are temporary. The rich suitor was ashamed when he understood that his stone could not give life like a sapling. The clever girl chose the poor young man, who gave his heart to labor and honesty, as her husband. The couple, married with a joyful wedding, lived in love and peace all their lives. True worth is hidden not in show, but in the labor and goodness that a person displays. Work is the mirror of a person.