In one town there lived a small cheerful Spring. From morning to evening, its waters flowed for the needs of the local residents. They worked hard, and the Spring knew that without its water, people simply could not survive, so it tried with all its might. It was difficult work because the Tricksters wanted to block its path and use the life-giving moisture themselves. But the Spring knew it had to break through and deliver water to the people, no matter what.
The Spring joyfully reached the large lake and rested, dissolving into it. But every day with the sunrise, it began its journey again and again. One day, distracted by how the clouds playfully reflected in it, it did not notice the danger and fell into a large wooden barrel, half-filled with stale, stagnant water.
Why did you wake me up, Quick Water?
Asked the dark, foul-smelling mass.
Forgive me, of course
Said the Living Spring
But how can you live like this?
And what?
Heavy Water lazily rose up
You are free, but I cannot change anything... Sigh
She whispered thoughtfully, releasing dark, heavy bubbles from her mouth
I wish I could be free, walk where I want, do what I want.
Then why do you live in the barrel? Leave it!
Said the Living Spring.
I cannot, this is my place!
Heavy Water said with resignation in her voice.
Nonsense!
Cried the Living Spring and angrily splashed with a wave
I will help you escape from here, but in return promise that when someone comes to you for help, you will also help those in need. But first tell me: can you listen to others?
I don't know
Heavy Water trembled with anticipation of freedom.
Well then, for a start, I will help you escape from here and become strong and clean water. You must run and run until you help three Kingdoms.
What if I fail?
Then you will forever turn into heavy, foul-smelling swamp.
The barrel water did not want to become a swamp, especially since the fact that she was not alone gave her confidence—the Living Spring was nearby. Many difficulties and trials fell to the lot of the barrel water, but she told herself: "I must do this, I must!".
Whether much time passed or little, but one day the barrel water heard from people: "Look, look, what a beautiful Spring!". The water turned around to rejoice for her friend the Living Spring, but saw no one beside her. And she understood that it was her that people called the Beautiful Spring.
So that's what a trickster the Living Spring turned out to be—it turns out I achieved everything myself, it turns out I can do a lot too. I will stay and live in these beautiful places where there are so many kind, hardworking and caring people. They will take care of me, and I will take care of them. Because my strength is endless, this will be my secret for people, my hidden message of life!
