The Proud Frog and the Big Ox

Once upon a time, in a quiet little stream at the edge of a meadow, there lived a big old Frog. He sat on his lily pad all day, proud of how large he was.

All the other frogs respected him. Even the dragonflies, flies, and fish stayed out of his way. In that stream, the Frog was king.

Nearby, a farmer owned the meadow. He had an old Ox who had worked hard for many years—pulling ploughs, carrying heavy loads, and helping the farmer’s family.
Now that the Ox was old and tired, the farmer decided to let him rest. He brought the Ox to live in the peaceful meadow near the stream.

The Ox was happy in his new home. The grass was green, the air was fresh, and there were flowers everywhere. He spent his days eating grass and lying in the sun.

The animals of the meadow had never seen a creature so big!
Butterflies flew out of his way, bees stopped buzzing, and even the ants paused to stare.

The dragonflies rushed to tell the Frog.
“There’s a huge monster in the meadow!” they cried.
“He’s got big horns, a long tail, and feet so heavy they shake the ground!”

The proud Frog laughed.
“Monster? He can't be bigger than me! I’m the biggest around here!” he said.

But just then, the Ox came down to the stream to drink some water.
The dragonflies flew up in fear.
The Frog stared. The Ox really was big!

Still, the Frog said, “That’s it? That’s your monster? I can be just as big!”

He took a deep breath, puffed up his chest, and swelled like a balloon.
“See? I’m as big as him now!”

The dragonflies shook their heads.
“No, no, he’s still bigger!”

The Frog puffed up more.
“And now?” he gasped.

“Still not big enough!” said the dragonflies.

The Frog was getting angry. He puffed and puffed until his belly grew huge, his cheeks swelled, and his eyes were nearly shut.

“Just… one… more… breath!” he squeaked.

And then—

POP!

The poor Frog had puffed up so much… he burst.

Moral:
Don't try to be something you're not. Pride can lead to foolish mistakes.