Angel and the Woodcutter

One day, a wood cutter’s axe accidentally fell into a river. The poor woodcutter did a good search in the water. But his efforts were in vain. Finally, he burst into tears. Hearing his sobs, an Angel appeared before him.

The Angel divided into the river and came up carrying a golden axe. The woodcutter did not accept it. He stated that his axe was made of iron. The angel disappeared and soon returned with a silver axe. The woodcutter again denied that it was his axe.            

The angel once again plunged into the river. It soon reappeared carrying the axe of the woodcutter. The poor man greeted the angel with words of profuse thanks and great joy. The Angel was impressed by the man’s honesty. She presented him with the golden and silver axes in recognition of his truthful nature.

Moral: Truthfulness brings its own reward.