Story about Integrity

Once upon a time, in a small village, there lived a hardworking woodcutter named Tom. Every day, Tom ventured into the forest to chop wood, which he sold in the village to make a modest living. Though he was poor, Tom was known for his honesty and integrity.

One day, as Tom was chopping wood near a river, his axe slipped from his hand and fell into the water. Tom was devastated because he couldn’t afford to buy a new one. Distraught, he sat by the riverbank and prayed for help. Suddenly, a shimmering figure emerged from the water. It was a water spirit, and she held two axes—one made of gold and the other of silver.

«Is this golden axe yours?» asked the spirit. Tom shook his head and replied, «No, it isn’t mine.»

The spirit then asked, «What about this silver axe?» Again, Tom shook his head and said, «No, that one isn’t mine either.»

Finally, the spirit pulled out Tom’s old, worn-out iron axe. Tom’s eyes lit up, and he exclaimed, «Yes, that is my axe!» The spirit smiled at Tom’s honesty and said, «Because you are truthful, you deserve a reward.» She handed him all three axes—the gold, the silver, and his own.

Tom returned to the village and shared his story, spreading the message that honesty and integrity are always rewarded. Consequently, the villagers admired Tom even more and learned the value of being truthful. Thus, Tom continued to live a content life, knowing that integrity is the best policy.

In conclusion, Tom’s story became a legend, teaching generations to come that honesty, indeed, is a treasure more valuable than gold.