When I was young, I heard a story that left a lasting impression on me. It’s called “The Flying Horse,” and it goes like this:
In a certain kingdom, a treasurer was accused of stealing money from the royal coffers. Despite his earnest pleas of innocence, his numerous adversaries at court influenced the king to decree his execution. Facing imminent death, the treasurer devised a bold plan. He approached the king and said, “Mighty King, grant me one year, and I will train your horse to fly. Imagine the renown of being the only monarch in the world with a flying horse.”
Intrigued, the king consulted his advisors, who had initially condemned the treasurer. He reasoned, “What do we have to lose? If he succeeds, I gain unparalleled prestige. If he fails, we can proceed with the execution as planned.” Thus, the king agreed to the treasurer’s proposal.
The treasurer returned home, leading the king’s horse. His wife, upon seeing him alive and in possession of the royal steed, was both relieved and bewildered. He recounted the day’s events and his promise to make the horse fly within a year. Distraught, his wife exclaimed, “Are you mad? You know that’s impossible! You’re merely postponing the inevitable.”
Calmly reclining, the treasurer responded with a serene smile, “My dear, much can happen in a year. The king might die, the horse might die, or perhaps… the horse might learn to fly.”
Reflections on the Story
This tale imparts profound wisdom about the uncertainties of life and the importance of living in the present. We cannot predict the future; we can only make the most of the time we have. While planning is essential, it’s equally vital to embrace the present moment, understanding that unforeseen circumstances can alter our paths. By focusing on the now and doing our best with the time at hand, we navigate life’s uncertainties with grace and resilience.
