The Crow and the Peacock
Once upon a time, there was a crow living in the forest. She lived a happy and content life because she had no great desires. But one day, she saw a swan. When she saw the swan’s beauty, she thought:"I’ve never seen such an animal. So white and pure, so beautiful." The crow flew to the swan and said:"You are so beautiful you must be very happy."
"Yes, I was happy… until I saw a flamingo. Since then, I think the flamingo is the most beautiful animal in the world. I only have one color, but he is bright pink and so graceful." The crow thought: If even the swan envies the flamingo, I must see him for myself. She flew to the lake and found the flamingo. "You must be very happy, with such a special color!" said the crow. The flamingo smiled and answered:
"Yes, I was happy… until I saw a peacock. I only have one color, but the peacock has so many and shines when he spreads his tail. "Now the crow knew she had to find the peacock.She searched and finally arrived at a zoo. There, many people stood around the peacock, admiring him. When the people left, the crow went up to the peacock and said:
"You are the most beautiful animal I’ve ever seen. Everyone comes just to see you. You must be the happiest animal in the world!" But the peacock sighed sadly and said: "Because of my beauty, I am trapped here in this cage. People come to see me, but I can never leave. You are free and can fly wherever you want. You are truly happy." And so the crow understood that freedom is more importantthan beauty.
Food for thought for children
Being beautiful is not the most important thing in life.We often believe someone must be happy just because they look beautiful. But beauty can also be a burden: others want to protect you or hold you back because they’re afraid something might happen to you. Being free and staying true to yourself is much more valuable. Be proud of who you are and enjoy your freedom.
Food for thought for teenagers online
On social media, beauty seems to be the most important thing. People get attention, likes, and followers just because of their looks, and you might think they are happier. But often, they pay a highprice: they feel trapped in the expectations of others, constantly judged, and afraid to just be themselves. True freedom means living for yourself not for the likes of others. Beauty can be a gift, but freedom is worth much more.