The Missed Target And The Lost Pride

Once upon a time, there was a proud tiger who thought very highly of himself.

"I am the strongest animal in the jungle!" he loved to boast. "I will never need anyone's help!"

One sunny afternoon, the tiger sat high up on a tree branch, quietly waiting to pounce. Soon, a gentle deer walked by underneath the tree. The tiger leaped down through the air, but he missed his target! Instead of landing on his feet, he tumbled head over heels right into a deep, dark pit.

"Oh no! Somebody please help me!" cried the tiger, realizing the pit was far too deep for him to climb out on his own.

Hearing the loud cries, a friendly elephant walked over. Seeing the trapped tiger, the elephant immediately wanted to help. He wrapped his strong trunk around a sturdy small tree, pulled it up, and lowered it gently into the pit to create a ramp.

The tiger carefully climbed up the tree trunk and scrambled out to safety.

"Thank you so much," said the tiger softly.

He realized then that no matter how big or strong you are, everyone needs a helping hand sometimes. From that day on, the tiger was never too proud to ask for help or express his gratitude.