The Real Price that we pay for Free Food and Free Drinks
In a quiet, peaceful forest, an old man came across a wandering sheep. As they exchanged glances, the man asked kindly, “Do you want free food? My wife is a wonderful cook, and she’s prepared a delicious meal at home.”
The sheep, hungry and weary, nodded eagerly, “Oh yes! I’m starving and would love some free food.”
Smiling, the old man said, “Wait here, I’ll bring you some.” A short while later, he returned with steaks, boiled eggs, and roasted vegetables. The sheep jumped for joy and thanked the man, “You saved my life!”
The next day, the old man spotted the sheep again in the forest. This time, he offered, “Would you like a free drink? My wife has made some excellent wine from grapes and berries.”
The sheep, parched and hopeful, whistled in excitement, “Yes, I’m so thirsty!”
Again, the old man returned with a jug of sweet wine. The sheep gratefully sipped the wine, singing praises to the old man, “You are a true savior!”
On the third day, their paths crossed once more. The old man smiled warmly and asked, “Do you need free shelter for the night? I have a comfortable home where you’ll be safe and protected.”
The sheep, tired from roaming, whispered, “Yes, I would love a safe place to rest.”
The old man led the sheep to his house. But once inside, a darker plan unfolded. Without warning, the old man picked up a shovel and struck the sheep, killing it instantly. He then skinned the sheep and prepared the meat for a grand New Year’s celebration.
When his wife returned, she asked, “Where did we get the meat?”
“It’s from a foolish sheep that couldn’t resist free things.”
We often get lured by the appeal of “free” things, but there is always a hidden cost.
Nothing truly comes without strings attached.
In life, you must ask yourself:
- What are the long-term consequences?
- What recurring commitments come with this?
- Is the value truly worth the hidden costs?
Remember: Greed and blind trust can make you pay the ultimate price. Beware of things that seem too good to be true-they often are.
This story is from my collection archives, don’t remember the source.
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Originally published at https://www.linkedin.com.
