The Tale of the Shepherd Boy

Deep within the captivating rolling fields, dwelt a young shepherd. His being was unadulterated, and unsophisticated. His primary duty get more info was to look after his flock of sheep.

Their low murmuring and the rustling of the wind among the lone tree on the mountaintop were his constant co-dwellers. Day after day, watching over his charges inculcated in him a sense of tranquil contentment.

But, there were at times moments of loneliness, when the shepherd boy would yearn for company. During one such occasion because of sheer monotony, the shepherd boy orchestrated a mischievous scheme.

Tales of wild beasts hunting on sheep had been heard times and again in the town. So, the boy decided to used this fear and played a prank on the villagers.

One day he dashed into the village shouting “Wolf! There is a wolf preying on my sheep!” The scared villagers rushed up the hills for rescue but saw no wolf.

The boy chuckled at the dilemma on their faces. This game continued for a few more days. Yet, one noon, a real wolf actually charge at the herd. The shepherd boy dashed for aid screaming “Wolf, Wolf!” But this time, no one responded.

Frustrated and alone, the boy fought against the wolf but could protect only few of his flock. Devastated, he went back to the town only to be met with a lesson on honesty and the consequences of dishonesty.

The tale of this shepherd boy has been handed down generations as a mediaeval parable for teaching the importance of honesty, the consequences of lying and the dangers of false alarms. Moreover, it stresses how trust once lost, is difficult to regain. It's a story as relevant today as it was anciently.