FICTION | LODESTAR GAZETTE
The Story Teller
A morality tale
Welcome my children. My real name is not important, I am called The Story Teller. That is what I do. Be comfortable, I will spin a yarn for you about something that happened long ago. Where this took place, again unimportant. I have traveled the globe, I am very old and very wise.
Today’s lesson is an important one. Listen carefully. Our story is about a simple boy. He was not born of royalty. His family was hard-working, and so was he. He attended school and harbored a dream. He wanted to be successful in business. This was not easy to accomplish since his family had neither money nor status. Sometimes, hopes and dreams do come true.
He met and married a wealthy young woman and now could buy and sell goods and become prosperous. With the success of his business, a beautiful wife, and three children, he grew proud and boastful. Success brings friends and enemies. His business grew, and he was able to employ several workers. Happiness is a fleeting thing. He and his wife parted, the children grew, and they left home to make their own lives.
Stepping into his life came a new woman. She was pretty and bright but poor. She worked to support herself and her ageing parents. She loved the man dearly and strived to be a good partner for him.
His children were spoiled and arrogant, having grown up as privileged. They objected to the woman. She will take his money they thought. She will leave none for us.
The man was torn, but the children prevailed. He was alone again. Now, into his life came a wealthy, fancy woman. She wore expensive garments and many jewels.
They married and moved to the largest house they could find. The children and their children were all thrilled, thinking now they would inherit her money as well as his.
Alas, happiness is a fleeting thing. The man grew weak and ill. He was cared for by the most expensive doctors and servants. The new wife was very busy. She was now managing the man’s money and assets. She hid her intentions and the man’s money, from his children, adding his assets to her own.
As he grew weaker, she told his children to stay away and not to bother their father with money issues. They tried time after time to see their father or speak to him, but the wife blocked their attempts.
At this point, The Story Teller paused to drink some water and rest for a moment. He continued. You see, my children, you can never really know the thoughts or the heart of someone else.
The man died, and nobody was allowed to attend the funeral. The family never understood. What happened to the poor girl? Unknown. Now my children, what was the moral of this story? The oldest of the children raised her hand. She said, “Story Teller I think it is the proverb, ALL THAT GLITTERS IS NOT GOLD”.
Correct, The Story Teller was pleased. I'm tired now my students, go home, do your chores, tomorrow you will hear another story.
Thank you for reading. Sadly it is a true story. I hope you will read more of my stories. Judy
The Lodestar Gazette — Recruitment
Fancy yourself a storyteller or poet? We’re now open to all nonfiction — share your life, thoughts, or a good old moan about the modern world. The Lodestar Gazette welcomes new voices in creativity.
Jump into our mix and let your words cause a stir. Forget the frills — bring your humour and zest. We are also Hosting a Weekly Reading club for all members. If interested, please click on the Lodestar Reading Club in the Memos Below.
