A Man True to His Word Fairy Tale

«If I had the power, I would do this,» is a common act of imagination for all of us. However, there are times when our words fly away like the wind when the moment comes. The story of the three brothers in this fairy tale offers insights not only for children but also for adults.

Once upon a time, there were three brothers. All three were destitute and impoverished. What they earned was not enough to meet their basic needs. One day, after cutting grass and feeling exhausted, the brothers were resting in the shade when a flock of blackbirds landed nearby. The eldest brother, watching the birds pecking at the ground for food, said:

– Oh, if I had such a herd of animals, I would live my life without upsetting anyone, - he said, stroking his beard.

Then the middle brother stood up and said:

– Yes, if I had flocks of sheep, I would never have to be ashamed in front of anyone in my life, - he dreamed.

When the youngest brother remained silent, his siblings asked, «What about you?»

– Even if I don't have so many animals, having just a little livestock that can support my family would be enough. If I have a roof over my head and a wise partner by my side, I too would live without upsetting anyone, - he replied.

As they were daydreaming, they did not notice the old man who had approached them. The old man, with a beard reaching down to his knees, appeared out of nowhere, and the three brothers jumped up in surprise. Then the old man said:

– My name is Uäde. I have been listening to your conversation for a while. If you keep your promises, I will grant you a gift, - he said.

– Please do, old man, - the brothers exclaimed in unison.

– Did you two say «animals»? Go, there are flocks of sheep under that green hill. One of you take the black ones, and the other take the white ones, - he said, waving his stick that glimmered in the sunlight.

The two brothers dashed off excitedly. Then, looking at the youngest, he said:

– And you go to that place where the smoke is rising. You will find a house, a wife, and a little livestock there, - and with that, the old man vanished from their sight.

From that moment on, the brothers' lives improved, and they lived a prosperous life. Days lined up, and years slipped by.

One day, Uäde decided to take Peiil and Baqyt with him to test those young men and set off on the road. In a fierce blizzard, he first came to the eldest brother.

– Hey, my son, we are guests of God. We are about to perish in this storm. Let us warm our feet by your fire. Please allow us! – they said, their voices trembling.

The wealthy man, unable to manage his livestock, shouted:

– Even if you are God, get away! I cannot entertain guests while my sheep are dying in this chaos! – he yelled. The old men, their beards frozen, left and went to the middle brother's house. He too, in a fit of anger, sent them away.

– Yes, we have seen their true colors. Now, let’s go to the youngest brother's house, - said Uäde.

The owner of the house, who jumped out barking like a mad dog, welcomed the guests and brought them inside. He treated them well, making sure they were comfortable. The young man's wife was also a good person. She pleased the old men and generously provided them with food and care.

The next morning, the guests prepared to leave. Then Uäde said:

– My son, I am grateful for your hospitality. As the saying goes, «Shame is stronger than death,» you are a man of your word, as strong as steel. You did not become greedy like your brothers who got drunk on their little wealth. May you prosper.

The youngest son, having received the old man's blessing, and his wife lived even more happily than before. Since then, good people have been blessed with happiness and kindness, and they say they have remained together forever.