A reward for Woodcutter's honesty. A Moral story for kids.

Once, in a quiet village nestled among thick woods, there lived a woodcutter known for his honesty. He would diligently chop trees in the forest and sell the firewood in the market. Despite being poor, he never compromised on his principles.

One day, while chopping wood near a tranquil stream, his axe slipped from his hand and fell into the water with a splash. Distraught, he sat by the bank, wondering how he would manage without his axe. Suddenly, the water shimmered, and a mystical creature emerged—a water spirit known for its trickery.

"I see your predicament," the spirit said, "and I can help. I have three axes with me. One is made of silver, one of gold, and one of diamond. You can choose one as a replacement for your lost axe."

The woodcutter was astounded. He knew the value of these precious metals and gems and couldn't believe his luck. He inspected each axe carefully, admiring their beauty and imagining the wealth they could bring him. After much consideration, he chose the diamond axe, thinking it would secure his future.

The spirit nodded and disappeared into the water, leaving the woodcutter with his new tool. With renewed vigor, he resumed his work, now chopping trees with ease using the diamond axe. The villagers marveled at his sudden prosperity and showered him with praise and envy.

However, as time passed, the woodcutter's newfound wealth changed him. He became obsessed with his riches, neglecting his work and mistreating others who were less fortunate. His honesty waned, replaced by greed and arrogance. He no longer cared for the forest or its creatures, viewing everything through the lens of profit.

One day, while boasting about his diamond axe in the market, a stranger approached him. "That axe looks magnificent," the stranger said, "but it seems you have forgotten something important."

Confused, the woodcutter asked what the stranger meant.

"You traded your honesty for wealth," the stranger replied calmly. "The axe you chose was not a gift, but a test. The diamond axe was cursed—it blinded you to the true value of things."

Realization dawned on the woodcutter. He remembered his humble beginnings, his respect for nature, and the joy of honest work. Overwhelmed with regret, he threw the cursed axe into the river and begged for forgiveness.

As the axe sank into the water, the spirit appeared once more. This time, its demeanor softened. "You have learned a valuable lesson," it said. "Honesty and integrity are worth more than any material wealth. Take this lesson to heart, and may it guide you always."

From that day on, the woodcutter returned to his simple life, chopping wood with a newfound humility and respect. He became known not for his wealth, but for his integrity and kindness. And though he never saw the mystical water spirit again, he carried its lesson with him, reminding others that true richness lies not in what we own, but in who we are.