________________
TWO FROGS
jumped harder and harder, and the milk turned into butter with all the movement of the jumping. The frog was now able to stand on the layer of butter on top, use that as leverage, and finally leap high enough to get out of the pot. Amazed, the other frogs celebrated his freedom and then gathering around him asking, "Why did you continue jumping when we told you it was impossible?" The astonished frog explained to them that he was deaf, and as he saw their gestures and shouting, he thought they were cheering him on. What he had perceived as encouragement inspired him to try harder and to succeed against all odds.
Moral: The book of proverbs says, "There is death and life in the power of the tongue". Your encouraging words can lift someone up and help them make it through the day. Your destructive words can cause deep wounds. They may be the weapons that destroy someone's desire to continue trying, or even their life. Your destructive, careless words can diminish someone in the eyes of others, destroy their influence, and have a lasting impact on the way others respond to them. Be careful what you say. Speak life to (and about) those who cross your path. There is enormous power in words. If you have words of kindness, praise, or encouragement, speak them now to, and about, others. Listen to your heart and respond.
43 - Questions: 1. When the two frogs fell into a pot of milk, what did their friends suggest? 2. Did they both follow their advice? What happened when one frog listened to their advice? 3. What explanation did the frog who was able to jump out give his friends? 4. What did you learn from this story?
JAIN STORY BOOK
159
