Long ago, in the days when the earth was still new, the sky spoke often to the land. Among the voices of the sky, none was more feared than Thunder. His roar shook the forest, split the trees, and sent animals running in terror. Every creature respected Thunder, yet many also feared his temper.
At that time, Tortoise was small and quiet, known for his slow steps and thoughtful ways. He was not considered powerful or fierce, yet his wisdom made him different. Tortoise lived peacefully, but he often wondered why Thunder used his power to frighten instead of to protect.
One season, Thunder grew restless. He came down from the sky in rolling storms and demanded gifts from the animals. “Bring me food and praise, or I will strike you with my voice,” he warned. The animals trembled and obeyed, bringing fruits, meat, and treasures. None dared to resist, except Tortoise.
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Tortoise thought carefully and said to himself, “Thunder may roar loudly, but he cannot strike without the lightning that follows him. His noise alone cannot destroy me if I stand firm.” He decided he would test Thunder’s pride.
When the animals next gathered to present their offerings, Tortoise brought nothing. He stood before Thunder, who rumbled angrily, his voice shaking the earth. “Why do you come before me empty-handed?” Thunder roared.
Tortoise bowed slowly and replied, “Great Thunder, your strength is mighty. Yet what good is strength if it serves only to frighten? I bring you no gift because fear is not the same as respect.”
The animals gasped, for no one had ever spoken to Thunder in this way. Thunder roared louder, his booming voice echoing across the land. But Tortoise did not run. Instead, he tucked his body into his shell and waited. Thunder thundered again, rolling with anger, yet still Tortoise did not move.
At last, Thunder grew weary. He realized that his noise could not harm the little creature who chose not to fear him. “You are bold, Tortoise,” he admitted. “Others tremble at my roar, but you have shown that wisdom and patience can withstand even the loudest storm.”
From that day forward, Thunder respected Tortoise. Though he continued to roar across the skies, he never again tried to humble the wise little creature. And so, the tale reminds us that sometimes wisdom and calmness are stronger than the noisiest display of power.
Moral Lesson
The story of The Thunder and the Tortoise teaches that wisdom and patience are greater than loud power. While Thunder relied on noise and fear, Tortoise showed that calmness, courage, and thoughtful strength can resist even the mightiest force. True respect is not gained through fear, but through humility and wisdom.
Knowledge Check
What is the main lesson of The Thunder and the Tortoise?
The story shows that wisdom and patience are stronger than noise and fear, teaching that calm courage can overcome intimidation.How did Thunder try to control the animals?
Thunder demanded gifts and used his loud roar to frighten them into obedience.What made Tortoise different from the other animals?
Tortoise did not fear Thunder’s roar and relied on patience, wisdom, and the protection of his shell.Why did Tortoise refuse to bring a gift to Thunder?
He believed that fear is not the same as respect and wanted to show that true honor cannot be forced.What does Thunder symbolize in the story?
Thunder represents pride, noise, and the misuse of power to control others through fear.What does Tortoise’s calmness teach us about handling challenges?
It shows that staying patient and thoughtful allows one to resist intimidation and face difficulties with strength.Cultural Origin: Gabonese folktale (Mpongwe Tribe), recorded by Robert H. Nassau in Where Animals Talk: West African Folklore Tales (1914).
