In a small village on the edge of a vast Russian forest lived three brothers: strong Dmitri, clever Boris, and kind-hearted Ivan. Dmitri could lift oxen, Boris could solve riddles, but Ivan was simple and quiet. He spoke to animals, gave away his food, and always had a smile.
When news came that a terrible war was approaching from the East, the Tsar called for brave men to come and stop it.
Dmitri said, “I will fight with strength,” and rode off with his sword.
Boris said, “I will trick the enemy,” and carried scrolls and maps.
Ivan packed only bread and a blanket.
Along the way, Ivan met a beggar. “Please, I’m cold and hungry.”
Ivan gave him his bread and blanket. The beggar revealed himself to be a wizard. “You gave without asking. You shall be rewarded.”
He gave Ivan a wooden flute. “Play this in time of need.”
Ivan reached the battlefield, where enemy soldiers stood in rows. He played the flute. Birds flew down, animals filled the field, and flowers bloomed under the soldiers’ feet. The army laughed and wept. No one wanted war anymore.
The generals laid down their weapons.
The Tsar offered Ivan riches and land, but Ivan declined. “I want peace, and bread for every village.”
And so he was called Ivan the Fool—but the people knew he was the wisest of all.
Moral: A kind heart can bring peace more than any army.
