The Rivers and the Sea

Summary

This story is a fable about accountability and understanding natural processes. It features a conversation between the Rivers and the Sea, in which the Rivers complain that their fresh waters become salty and undrinkable after mixing with the Sea. The Sea responds logically, suggesting that the transformation is a natural consequence of their merging and not the Sea’s fault. This tale can be used to teach lessons about responsibility and the importance of acknowledging the inherent characteristics and effects of nature. The fable highlights how blaming others for natural changes is often misguided and emphasizes accepting and understanding the natural world.

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The Rivers joined together to complain to the Sea, saying, “Why is it that when we flow into your tides so potable and sweet, you work in us such a change, and make us salty and unfit to drink?” The Sea, perceiving that they intended to throw the blame on him, said, “Pray cease to flow into me, and then you will not be made briny.”