Hercules and the Wagoner: An Aesop Fable About Taking Action

After a heavy rain, a Farmer was driving his wagon down a muddy country road.

The horses struggled to pull the heavy load through the deep mud. Before long, one of the wagon’s wheels became stuck in a deep rut, sinking all the way to the hub.

The Farmer climbed down and stared at the wagon. Instead of trying to free it, he complained about his bad luck and called out for the mighty Hercules to help him.

To the Farmer’s surprise, Hercules appeared before him.

“Why are you calling for my help?” asked Hercules.

“My wagon is stuck,” said the Farmer. “Please get it out for me.”

Hercules shook his head.

“First, put your shoulder to the wheel,” he said. “Encourage your horses and do everything you can to move the wagon yourself. Do you expect it to free itself while you stand here complaining?”

Then Hercules added,

“The gods help those who help themselves.”

The Farmer took the advice. He pushed with all his strength while urging the horses forward. This time, the wagon rolled out of the rut with little difficulty.

The Farmer climbed back onto his wagon and continued on his journey, having learned an important lesson that day.

Moral: Help yourself first, and others will be more able to help you.

Hercules and the Wagoner: An Aesop Fable About Taking Action – Free Printable