In a lush garden, a cat named Mani and a monkey named Somu lived together. Mani was gentle and kind, while Somu was clever and always looking for ways to get more food. They lived a comfortable life under the care of a kind gardener.
One chilly evening, they noticed a small cooking fire burning near the garden shed. On top of the glowing embers sat a large, delicious almond. Somu’s eyes widened with greed. He wanted that almond, but it was far too hot to touch.
Somu decided to use his wit. He looked at Mani and said, "Oh Mani, you are truly the bravest creature in this whole garden! Look at your strong paws. Only someone as courageous as you can reach into the heat and grab that almond without getting hurt."
Mani, feeling very proud of her bravery, stepped toward the fire. "I will do it!" she declared. As she reached out, the heat stung her paws sharply. She winced in pain, but Somu kept cheering her on. "Just a little more, Mani! You are a hero! Don't stop now!"
Driven by the desire to prove her courage, Mani finally managed to flick the almond out of the fire. The moment it hit the ground, Somu leaped forward, snatched it up, and swallowed it in one gulp. Mani stood there, nursing her sore paws, realizing that Somu had only praised her to get what he wanted. She learned that empty praise often hides a selfish motive.
Moral
Be careful of those who use excessive praise to serve their own interests.
