A great king was accustomed to learning about the state of his kingdom through his spies. However, one day he became eager to discover what his people truly thought of him. Sharing this desire with his trusted companion, the friend suggested that it was the king’s duty to personally gauge the mindset of the people. However, the king expressed concern that if he approached them openly, they might be reluctant to speak the truth. The friend then proposed that they could go in disguise, ensuring that no one would recognize them and thus, the people would speak freely.
Taking his advice, they dressed as simple farmers and set out on their journey. After traveling a great distance, they encountered a narrow path leading into a dense forest. Weary from the journey, the king suggested they rest under a tree. As they sat there, a man carrying a heavy bundle of firewood approached. Noticing the elderly man’s burden, the king’s companion kindly offered, “Sir, this sun is harsh. Wouldn’t it be better to rest here for a while?”
The old man replied, “It would indeed be good to rest, but once I put this bundle down, who will lift it back onto my head?”
The king’s companion assured him, “Don’t worry, sir. We will be here to help you lift it back when you’re ready to leave.” With that, they helped the man set down his bundle, and all three rested under the tree. While they rested, the companion whispered something to the king, who nodded in agreement. The companion then turned to the old man and said, “Do you know what happened today, sir?”
“What happened?” asked the old man.
“Our great king has passed away,” the companion said sorrowfully.
Hearing this, the old man was shocked. “What? The king is dead? How could this have happened? Was there a conspiracy? Is this true?” he asked with great concern.
The companion asked, “Why are you so troubled by the news?”
The old man replied, “How can I not be troubled? Our king has done so much for this kingdom. His leadership is the reason our land prospers today. He has been a kind ruler, providing benefits for everyone, from children to the elderly. No other ruler could match his goodness.”
Surprised, the companion asked, “You live by cutting and selling firewood, yet you speak so highly of the king. Why is that?”
The old man answered, “Because of the king’s rule, my family has no difficulties. We earn a good income, and we live comfortably. If we were struggling, only then could I complain about the king.” After resting for a while, the old man resumed his journey with their help.
As the king and his companion continued their journey, they entered a village where the king felt thirsty. His companion suggested they find something to drink. Just then, they spotted a woman carrying a pot of buttermilk. The companion asked her for two cups and paid for them.
After drinking, the companion asked the woman, “Why are you so indifferent? Don’t you know that our honorable king has passed away today?”
The woman responded, “What does it matter if the king is alive or dead? Even a king cannot conquer nature. Thank you for telling me. When the news spreads, many people will gather to mourn, and I’ll have a good business selling more buttermilk.”
The king’s companion pondered the contrast between the two reactions and remarked, “Your Majesty, the two people we met expressed completely different views. What do you think could be the reason?”
The king replied, “The old man revered me because he benefited from my rule. On the other hand, the woman, driven by self-interest, saw an opportunity for profit in my death. Both reactions are natural. While some people praise us for our good deeds, others will always find reasons to criticize.”
The companion agreed, adding, “As a ruler, it is your duty to govern with courage and strength, undeterred by public opinion. Only by doing so can you ensure the well-being of your people and earn respect both within and beyond your borders.”
The king understood, saying, “As a ruler, I now realize that no matter what I do, people will always have different opinions. This has become clear to me.”