Helping human beings

We can do so only to the limit of our abilities and knowledge

July 18th 2026
It is altogether admirable to wish to help others, but wishing is not enough. You must first understand that you can help them only to the limit of your abilities and knowledge, and not undertake ventures that are beyond your power.
One day an acorn said to an old oak, ‘I’m so full of love. I want to go out into the world to help all creatures.’ The old oak shook his head and replied, ‘Don’t be in such a hurry. Bury yourself in the ground for a while, and give yourself a chance to grow. Later, when you become a beautiful tree, you will shelter birds in your branches, you will give food to the animals of the forest, provide shade to human beings, and inspire painters…’ ‘Oh, you’re old and tired!’ said the acorn; ‘You’ve forgotten what it’s like to be young and full of enthusiasm. Goodbye, I’m off!’ So there he was, ever so proud by the roadside, wondering which way to go, when a pig came along, spotted him and gobbled him up.
This is what happens to all those young people who are presumptuous enough to think that they can change the world without having studied or exerted themselves: they are devoured by the first pig that comes along.
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