The Greedy Hyena and the Wise Tortoise (A Swahili Tale from East Africa) Once Upon a Time… In a vast savanna, where the golden grass stretched endlessly, lived a cunning hyena named Mbwa and a wise old tortoise named Kobe. The hyena was always looking for ways to get food without working for it, while the tortoise, though slow, was known for his intelligence and patience. One dry season, food became scarce, and animals struggled to find anything to eat. Mbwa, being lazy, refused to hunt and relied on tricking others into sharing their food. One day, he stumbled upon Kobe resting near a small pond. “Ah, my friend Kobe,” said Mbwa with a wide grin. “You always seem to know where to find food. Help a hungry friend, won’t you?” Kobe, knowing the hyena’s greedy nature, smiled and replied, “I do know a place where we can find food. But to reach it, you must be patient and follow my instructions carefully.” Mbwa, desperate for a meal, nodded eagerly. The Journey to the Hidden Feast Kobe led Mbwa deep into the forest, where a tall, ancient tree stood. At its base was a small hole. “Inside this hole,” Kobe explained, “is a magical cave filled with fruits, meat, and honey. But there’s a secret to entering: you must say the magic words as you step inside.” Mbwa licked his lips in anticipation. “Tell me the words, Kobe!” Kobe whispered, “To enter, say ‘Open, Cave of Plenty,’ and to leave, say ‘Close, Cave of Plenty.’ But remember, you must say the words when you leave, or you will be trapped inside.” Mbwa nodded impatiently and squeezed through the hole. The moment he stepped inside, his eyes widened in amazement—piles of ripe bananas, roasted antelope, sweet honeycombs, and more! He greedily ate and ate, forgetting all about Kobe’s warning. Trapped by Greed Hours passed, and Mbwa had eaten so much that his belly became round and bloated. When he finally decided to leave, he tried to squeeze through the hole—but he was too fat! Panicking, he tried to remember the magic words, but in his greed, he had forgotten! Outside, Kobe chuckled softly. “Mbwa, do you remember the words to leave?” Mbwa groaned and pleaded, “Kobe, help me! Remind me of the words!” Kobe shook his head. “You did not listen carefully. Now, you must wait until you are hungry again and thin enough to escape.” Mbwa spent several days in the cave, unable to eat more. As he grew thinner, he finally squeezed out, humiliated and starving. The Lesson From that day on, Mbwa learned that greed and impatience lead to trouble. Meanwhile, Kobe, wise as ever, continued living a life of patience and wisdom, never falling into the trap of excess. Modern Application This story teaches us that: • Greed leads to downfall – People who take more than they need, whether in business, relationships, or leadership, often face consequences. • Patience and wisdom are valuable – Those who listen, plan, and act wisely always come out ahead. • Shortcuts can backfire – Trying to get quick rewards without effort can lead to disaster...