Never assume superiority

[Sundara Rajan]

The Best Tree  

In a farmer’s field, a mango tree and a neem tree sprouted next to each other. Observing this, the farmer cared for the mango tree diligently, adding fertilizer and watering it regularly, while ignoring the neem tree entirely. The mango tree began to feel proud, thinking, “I must be special, which is why the farmer is showering me with so much attention.” Slowly, arrogance took root in the mango tree’s heart. Over time, both trees grew tall and bore fruit. The mango tree produced sweet fruit, while the neem tree bore bitter ones. Everyone relished the sweet mangoes, which only inflated the mango tree’s pride. It even stopped speaking to the neem tree. Noticing this, the neem tree asked, “Mango, why don’t you talk to me like before?” “Why would I? You and I are not equals. I bear sweet, delightful fruits, while your bitter ones are useless and undesirable. You are inferior to me. Why should I be friends with you?” the mango tree replied arrogantly. The neem tree responded calmly, “Don’t be so proud of your sweet fruits. 

My seeds have their own value and demand, as they are used for medicinal purposes. I don’t need a friend who is full of arrogance.” Nearby, a tall coconut tree heard their argument. It grew irritated and said, “Enough of this bickering! I can’t listen to you anymore.” “Why are you annoyed, Coconut?” asked the mango tree. “We’re just trying to determine which one of us is the best.” “Why don’t you decide for us, then?” asked the neem tree. “Tell us who is greater, so we can end this argument and go on with our lives.” The coconut tree sighed and said, “You both are foolish. Each tree has its own unique value and importance. Stop arguing.”

But the mango tree insisted, “No, you must tell us who is the best tree.” Reluctantly, the coconut tree replied, “Fine, since you insist, I’ll tell you. But don’t regret my decision.” “Go ahead,” agreed both trees. “In my view, the neem tree is the better tree,” said the coconut. “How can you say that?” asked the mango tree in shock. “Well, mangoes are sweet and loved by everyone. They provide taste and satisfaction to those who eat them. But neem seeds, though bitter, have medicinal properties and can cure many illnesses.

That makes neem a truly valuable tree. But that’s my opinion. It’s up to you to accept it or not,” the coconut explained. “That’s not true! You’re just jealous of me. I won’t accept your verdict,” the mango tree declared angrily. Time passed, and the mango tree was infested with pests and diseases. Its roots started rotting, leaves and fruits fell off, and branches withered. The farmer noticed the mango tree’s plight and collected neem seeds from under the neem tree. He ground them into powder and applied it around the mango tree’s roots. The neem powder cured the infection, and the mango tree regained its health. This was a revelation for the mango tree. It realized the truth in the coconut tree’s words: “Giving sweetness is not the greatest virtue; giving health is.” The mango tree humbly acknowledged the neem tree as the better tree and rekindled their friendship. Moral: Never underestimate the virtues of others. 

Writer;

Ranganathan.       

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