The tree and the reed

“Well, little one,” said a tree to a reed that was growing at its foot, “why do you not plant your feet deeply in the ground, and raise your head boldly in the air as I do?” “I am contented with my lot,” said the reed. “I may not be so grand, but I think […]

“Well, little one,” said a tree to a reed that was growing at its foot, “why do you not plant your feet deeply in the ground, and raise your head boldly in the air as I do?”
“I am contented with my lot,” said the reed. “I may not be so grand, but I think I am safer.”
“Safe!” sneered the tree. “Who shall pluck me up by the roots or bow my head to the ground?” But it soon had to repent of its boasting, for a hurricane arose which tore it up from its roots, and cast it a useless log on the ground, while the little Reed,
Bending to the force of the wind, soon stood upright again when the storm had passed over.