The Wise Old Turtle – China (Original Version)

In a serene village nestled by the banks of a wide, flowing river in China, the people lived in harmony with nature. The villagers were known for their hard work, kindness, and respect for their elders. At the heart of the village, in a tranquil pond shaded by ancient willow trees, lived a wise old turtle named Master Shen.

Master Shen had been a part of the village for as long as anyone could remember. His shell bore the marks of countless years, and his eyes held the wisdom of ages. The villagers often sought his counsel, for Master Shen was known for solving the most perplexing problems with patience and insight.

One year, the village faced a terrible drought. The river that once teemed with life had become a mere trickle, and the fields lay parched under the relentless sun. The villagers grew anxious as their crops withered and their water supplies dwindled.

In their desperation, the younger villagers insisted on trying a series of quick fixes—digging deeper wells, building makeshift dams, and even seeking rainmakers from distant lands. Yet, despite their efforts, the skies remained clear, and the land remained dry.

Seeing their distress, Master Shen called for a gathering at the pond. As the villagers assembled, he slowly emerged from the water and spoke in his deep, calming voice.

“My dear friends,” he began, “in times of hardship, we must remember the lessons of nature. The river does not rush, yet it reaches the sea. The bamboo bends in the wind but does not break. Patience and unity are our greatest strengths.”

The villagers listened intently as Master Shen continued. “Let us work together, wisely and patiently. Conserve what water we have, share with those in need, and tend to our fields with care. Trust that nature will provide in due time.”

Inspired by the turtle’s words, the villagers set to work. They organized water-sharing schedules, carefully tended their crops, and helped one another with tasks. Each day, they gathered by the pond, learning from Master Shen about the balance of nature and the importance of patience.

Days turned into weeks, and slowly, the clouds began to gather. One evening, as the villagers sat by the pond, the first raindrops fell. Cheers erupted as the sky opened up, drenching the land with much-needed rain. The river swelled, the fields drank deeply, and life returned to the village.

With the drought behind them, the villagers celebrated their resilience and unity. They thanked Master Shen, whose wisdom had guided them through their darkest days. The lesson of patience remained with them, woven into the fabric of their lives.

And so, the wise old turtle continued to watch over the village, a symbol of wisdom and serenity, reminding all who visited the pond of the enduring power of patience and the strength found in working together.

The End.