Aesop

The Boy and the Nettles

Summary

In this fable, a boy experiences pain from a nettle sting after trying to handle it gently. His mother advises him that his timid approach is the reason for his discomfort. She tells him that if he had grasped the nettle firmly, it would not have hurt him. The story imparts a moral lesson on the importance of facing challenges or fears boldly rather than timidly, suggesting that sometimes a more assertive approach can lead to a better outcome. It serves as a metaphorical teaching tool for children about courage and how to manage difficulties in life.

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A Boy was stung by a Nettle. He ran home and told his Mother, saying, “Although it hurts me very much, I only touched it gently.” “That was just why it stung you,” said his Mother. “The next time you touch a Nettle, grasp it boldly, and it will be soft as silk to your hand, and not in the least hurt you.”

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