The Tree and the Reed

Well, little one," said a Tree to a Reed that was growing at its foot, "why do you not plant your feet deeply in the ground and raise your head boldly in the air as I do?"

"I am contented with my lot," replied the Reed. "I may not be as grand, but I believe I am safer."

"Safe!" sneered the Tree. "Who could possibly pluck me up by the roots or force my head to bow to the ground?"

However, the Tree soon had to repent of its boasting. A hurricane arose, tearing it up from its roots and casting it down as a useless log on the ground. In contrast, the little Reed, bending gracefully to the force of the wind, stood upright again as soon as the storm passed.

This tale reminds us that obscurity often brings safety.