The Heifer and the Ox
Aesop | Greece
In a farm, a Heifer mocks an Ox's hard work but later realizes her idleness leads to sacrifice, while the Ox rests.
Once upon a time, in a quiet farm, there lived a young Heifer and an old Ox. One sunny morning, the Heifer noticed the Ox, harnessed to a heavy plow, working hard in the field. She chuckled, watching the Ox's labor, and made remarks about his tough life. She felt quite pleased with her own life, full of leisure and freedom. The Ox simply looked at her and returned to his work, not uttering a word.
Several weeks passed, and the harvest time came. The farm was full of joy and excitement. The farmer unhooked the Ox from the plow, giving him a day of rest. The Ox watched as the farmer then turned to the Heifer. With a strong cord, the farmer tied the Heifer and led her away from the field.
The Heifer looked at the Ox with fear in her eyes, not understanding why she was being taken away while the Ox was allowed to rest. The Ox, watching the scene, turned to the Heifer and said, "This is why you lived in comfort while I toiled away in the fields."
The Heifer was led away to the altar, realizing too late that her idleness had a price. Meanwhile, the Ox continued his rest, his work done for the day.
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