Long ago, in the Age of Stone, the land was wild and ever-changing. Rivers flooded without warning, fires burned through forests, and the ground itself sometimes shook. Among all the animals living in this dangerous world was Taro, an old turtle who moved very slowly.
Taro lived near a river where many animals gathered to drink. Deer, antelope, and wild horses often laughed at him as they ran past.
“Why do you move so slowly?” they teased.
“You will never survive in this world,” others said.
Taro did not argue. He simply kept moving, step by step, carrying his home on his back.
One day, dark clouds gathered in the sky. The birds flew away, and the air felt heavy. Taro sensed danger. The river began to rise, swelling higher and higher. Soon, the water overflowed its banks, flooding the land.
Fast animals ran in panic. Some ran toward low ground, others crashed into trees and rocks. The faster they ran, the more confused they became.
Taro did not panic. He turned slowly and began walking toward higher ground. He did not stop, even when the water reached his legs. His shell protected him from floating debris, and his calm mind guided him forward.
Night fell, and the floodwaters spread across the land. Many animals were trapped, exhausted from running in fear. But Taro continued his slow journey, resting only when necessary.
By morning, he reached a rocky hill where the water could not reach. As the sun rose, other animals appeared—tired, hungry, and frightened. They were surprised to see Taro already safe.
“How did you get here?” they asked.
“I did not rush,” Taro replied. “I did not fear. I only kept moving.”
Days later, when the flood ended, animals remembered Taro’s journey. They realized that speed alone did not bring survival. Calm thinking, patience, and steady effort were just as important.
From that day on, animals no longer laughed at the turtle. When danger came, they watched Taro and followed his quiet wisdom.
And Taro continued walking slowly through the Stone Age world, proving that persistence and patience can overcome even the greatest dangers.