Anansi and the Moss-Covered Rock

A spider named Anansi lived in a dense forest in West Africa. He was a clever and cunning spider who always sought ways to outsmart his friends and enemies. Then, one day, Anansi came across a moss-covered rock that he thought was special.

He went to his friends Turtle, Rabbit, and Bear and told them about the rock. He said, “This is a magical rock that can grant wishes. But you have to touch it with your nose and say your wish out loud.”

Turtle, Rabbit, and Bear were all excited to make their wishes. Turtle went first and touched the rock with his nose, but nothing happened. Rabbit tried next, and the same thing happened. Finally, it was Bear’s turn, but he was very skeptical. He asked Anansi if he was sure the rock was magic, and Anansi assured him that it was.

Bear touched the rock with his nose and wished for the ability to fly. As he closed his eyes and concentrated, Anansi snuck behind him and tied his tail to a tree.

When Bear opened his eyes, he felt light and looked down to see that he was flying. But as he tried to move his tail, he realized he was stuck. Anansi came out of hiding and laughed at Bear. Turtle and Rabbit were angry and disappointed that Anansi had tricked them all.

But Anansi still needed to be finished. He saw a honey pot in the distance and wanted it all himself. So he went to his friends and said, “There is a great treasure on the other side of the river. But to get there, you must make a raft out of sticks.”

Turtle, Rabbit, and Bear were all set to work building the raft while Anansi watched. When they finished, Anansi suggested they test it to ensure it was sturdy enough. So he hopped on first, followed by Turtle, Rabbit, and Bear.

As they drifted down the river, Anansi pulled out a bag of stones and threw them at his friends. Unfortunately, the rocks hit Turtle, Rabbit, and Bear, and they fell into the river.

Anansi laughed and continued to eat the honey all by himself.

But as he ate, he realized he felt guilty for tricking his friends. So he returned to the river and rescued Turtle, Rabbit, and Bear. He apologized for his behavior and promised to be a better friend.

From that day on, Anansi was known for his cunning, kindness, and loyalty.

Moral of the story: Being clever and cunning is not enough. True friends value honesty and kindness above all else.