The Princess and the Pond – An Inspiring Tale of Courage and Wisdom

Summary: A drought struck the kingdom, leaving its people without water. The princess, overcoming her fears, ventures to a magical pond to solve ancient riddles and save her people. This story teaches us courage, wisdom, and the responsibility to help others.

Long ago, a great calamity befell a kingdom: rivers and lakes dried up, wells ran empty, and the earth cracked under the scorching heat. The people suffered from thirst, crops withered, and livestock could not survive. The king proclaimed: “Whoever finds a way to bring water back to our land will be rewarded!” But even the wisest advisors and bravest knights could not find a solution to save the land.

The young princess heard tales of a magical pond deep in the forest that could restore water, but only if its riddles were answered. Yet no one dared to go, as the pond was surrounded by dangers and shrouded in legend. Seeing her people’s suffering, the princess decided to take matters into her own hands. “I must try. If not me, then who?” she said.

Gathering her courage, she donned a simple dress, packed some bread and water, and set off. The forest was dark and filled with strange sounds, but the princess pressed on. After hours of walking, she reached the magical pond. Its water was extraordinarily clear, and tiny lights seemed to dance above its surface.

As she stepped closer, a voice echoed: “Who are you, and why have you come here?” Summoning her courage, the princess replied, “I am the princess of this kingdom. My people are suffering from a drought, and I seek your help.” The voice responded, “You are brave, but only wisdom will aid you. Answer my three riddles, and the water will return.”

The first riddle was about time: “What cannot be stopped but can be lost?” The princess thought for a moment and answered, “Time.” The voice acknowledged her answer. The second riddle was trickier: “What grows larger the more you take away from it?” The princess smiled and said, “A hole.” Again, the voice agreed. Finally, the hardest riddle came: “What belongs to you but is used more by others?” The princess pondered for a long time before answering, “My name.”

A brilliant light shone around the pond. “You have solved my riddles, princess. Now the water will return to your kingdom. But remember: with great power comes great responsibility.”

The princess thanked the pond and returned home. Water began to fill the rivers and lakes, ending the drought and bringing the land back to life. The people greeted the princess with joy, and the king declared her a hero. The princess learned that it is important not to fear taking responsibility and to use courage and wisdom to face challenges.

Moral of the story: Courage and wisdom are the keys to overcoming any challenge. Those who take responsibility for others can change the world.

Discussion Questions:

• Why did the princess decide to go to the magical pond?
• What riddles did the pond ask, and how did the princess solve them?
• How did the princess change after her journey?