The Clever Farmer .

- " You must follow some simple steps to feel better."

- Patel Dwiti M

O nce upon a time, there was a king who was very lazy. He didn't like doing any work. All day long, he just enjoyed eating food and trying out new dishes. Because of this unhealthy lifestyle, the king soon became very ill.

He became so weak that he couldn't even get out of bed. His personal doctors tried many medicines and treatments to cure him, but nothing worked.

One day, one of the king's wise ministers had an idea.

He said, "Let's make an announcement to the whole town!"

So, messengers were sent out to spread the news:

"Anyone who can cure the king will be rewarded with 200 precious gems!"

After hearing the message, many doctors and common people from nearby villages and distant towns came to the royal court. They all offered their ideas, potions, and remedies-but still, the king's health did not improve.

Then one day, a poor old farmer who lived nearby heard the announcement. He was a simple man who earned his living by grazing cows and selling their milk. But he was wise in his own way.

He thought for a while, then went to the royal court and said boldly,

"Your Majesty, I know what is making you ill."

The king was surprised to hear this from a farmer.

He looked at him with curiosity and asked,

"You do? Then tell me quickly-what is the reason?" The farmer smiled and said, "I'll explain the reason later. But first, you must follow some simple steps to feel better."

The king, desperate to recover, agreed at once.

"Yes, yes! Tell me-what should I do?"

The farmer said,

"There is a neem tree growing 15 kilometers away from the palace. It's no ordinary tree-it has special powers. But to benefit from it, you must walk there every morning. No chariots, no horses, no shortcuts. Just walk. When you reach the tree, sit under its shade and eat five neem leaves. Do this every day for one week. You'll feel better. Keep doing it for a whole month, and you'll see an amazing change in your health."

The king followed the instructions exactly.

He walked to the neem tree every day, ate the leaves, and sat quietly under the tree. After just one week, he began to feel fresher and lighter. His energy started returning, and he even noticed that he was losing weight!

By the end of the month, the king had completely changed. He was healthier, more active, and no longer lazy. He had even started doing his royal duties again.

Pleased and grateful, the king called the farmer back to the court and asked,

"How did you succeed when so many others failed?"

The farmer replied humbly,

"Your Majesty, the real reason behind your illness was not some disease-it was your poor eating habits and lack of movement. I simply gave you a reason to walk and breathe fresh air every day. That alone brought your health back."

The king was impressed.

He kept his promise and rewarded the farmer with 200 shining gems. Then, the farmer politely made a request: "Your Majesty, may I join the palace guards?"

The king smiled and agreed.

"Of course! We could use someone as clever and wise as you."

Moral

Exercise keeps you healthy and strong. Even small changes can make a big difference!