The old eagle has long lost track of the years, living in splendid isolation among the inaccessible rocks. But his strength began to fail him, and he felt that his end was near. With a powerful call, the eagle called his sons who lived on the slopes of the neighboring mountains. When everyone was assembled, he looked at everyone and said:
- All of you were fed, raised by me and from an early age were taught to boldly look the sun in the eyes. I starved those of your brothers who could not stand the dazzling radiance. This is why you rightfully fly above all other birds. And woe to anyone who dares to approach your nest! All living things tremble before you. But be generous and do not harm the weak and defenseless. Don’t forget the good old truth: you can force yourself to fear, but you can’t force yourself to respect.
The young eagles respectfully listened to the speeches of their parent.
“My days are numbered,” he continued. “But I don’t want to die in the nest.” No! For the last time I will rush to the sky-high heights where wings can lift me. I will fly towards the sun to burn old feathers in its rays, and will immediately collapse into the depths of the sea.
At these words, such silence reigned that even the mountain echo did not dare to disturb it.
- But know this! - the father finally said to his sons. “At this very moment a miracle should happen: I will emerge from the water again young and strong to live a new life.” And the same fate awaits you. Such is our eagle lot!
And so, spreading its wings, the old eagle took off on its last flight. Proud and majestic, he made a farewell circle over the rock, where he raised numerous offspring and lived for many years. Keeping deep silence, his sons watched as the eagle boldly rushed towards the sun.
Translated from Russian · original on wisdomlib.ru