The Wind and the Sun

The Wind and the Sun, oft mentioned in song, had a quarrel over which one was the most strong. They argued with much heat and bluster; the wind about its strength, the sun about its luster. Anon came a traveler, one of the common folk, enjoying a morning walk and wearing a fine cloak. "Let us both agree", said the radiant Sun, "that he who removes his coat is the stronger one." "Very well", growled the Wind and, with force unsurpassed, aimed at the traveler a most powerful blast. But with each and every impressive gust, the man held his cloak tighter, to the Wind's disgust. In spite of his efforts, the Wind could not sustain and eventually, reluctantly, gave up in vain. Then the Sun emerged and began to shine. At first, he shone gently; the weather turned fine. The sky and surroundings seemed to transform; the man loosened his cloak for now he was warm. The Sun's rays grew warmer, and now the man removed his coat and mopped his brow. Amidst that wonderful, beautiful heat the Wind accepted and acknowledged defeat. And so, my children, the moral here of course is that persuasion is always better than force.