The Donkey in the Lion’s Skin

A young donkey worked on a farm beside the forest. He carried baskets and pulled a small cart. He admired the lion, because other animals moved aside whenever the lion appeared. “Everyone respects him,” Donkey thought. “No one fears me.”

Near an abandoned hunting camp, Donkey found an old lion skin. He put it over his back. The mane covered his head, and the large skin hid most of his body. In a still pond, his reflection looked almost like a lion.

He walked into the forest. Rabbit fled into the bushes. Two deer hurried away. Birds left their branches, and squirrels hid in their nests. Donkey felt powerful. He walked slowly and proudly.

Then he saw animals resting beneath a tree. He climbed onto a rock. “I will roar, and they will all know how mighty I am!”

But Donkey could not roar. He opened his mouth and gave his loudest bray. The animals stopped running. They knew that familiar sound.

Fox stepped forward. “Your clothing almost fooled us. Your voice told us who you are.” As Donkey climbed down, the skin caught on a branch and slipped away. He returned to the farm, embarrassed.

The next morning he began his ordinary work, but he no longer felt ashamed of being a donkey. Frightening others had not earned their respect. He could earn it through honesty, helpful work, and good character.