Problem solving story: How to tell the king that his solution isn't suitable

Once upon a time, in a vast and prosperous kingdom, there lived a wise and just king. His people adored him, and under his rule, the land flourished. One day, the king decided to leave his grand palace and travel throughout his kingdom. He wanted to visit historical sites, sacred places, and even the most distant villages to better understand his people’s lives. The journey was exhilarating. As he traveled through towns and villages, he met his people, listened to their joys and struggles, and learned about their way of life. His heart swelled with pride when he heard them praise his rule, and he felt a deep sense of responsibility to make their lives even better. However, not all parts of his kingdom were easily accessible by chariot, so he walked long distances on foot to reach the remote regions. At first, the king enjoyed walking, he felt connected to his people, and the fresh air filled him with energy. But as the journey continued, the rough, rocky roads began to take a toll on him. He was not used to such hardships. Sharp stones, uneven paths, and the scorching heat of the ground caused severe pain in his feet. Every step became an agony, and by the time he returned to his palace, his legs ached so much that he could barely stand.

Frustrated by his discomfort, the king summoned his ministers. He expressed his distress, stating that the roads in his kingdom were unfit for travel. He worried not only about himself but also about his people, who had to walk these rough paths daily. He believed that no one should have to suffer such pain. In an attempt to solve the problem, the king issued an extraordinary order, and that was that every road in the kingdom should be covered with leather. The ministers were stunned. Covering all the roads with leather was not only an impractical idea but also an incredibly costly one. It would require killing thousands of cattle just to gather enough material. The economic and environmental consequences would be disastrous. However, no one dared to question the king’s decision. Then, a wise advisor stepped forward. He respectfully bowed and addressed the king, offering a better solution. Instead of covering the roads with leather, he suggested crafting a small piece of leather to cover just the king’s feet. The advisor carefully measured the king’s feet and ordered the royal craftsmen to create a comfortable pair of leather shoes.

When the shoes were ready, the advisor presented them to the king and asked him to try them on. The king hesitated at first but then slipped his feet into the shoes. As he walked, he was astonished. The rough and jagged roads no longer hurt him. The pain was gone, and walking had become effortless and pleasant. He looked up at his advisor in admiration, realizing the brilliance of such a simple yet effective solution. The king understood an important lesson that day. Instead of trying to change the entire world to fit his needs, he needed to change his own perspective and adapt. His idea of covering all the roads had been an unrealistic demand, but the wise advisor’s solution was practical, efficient, and kind to nature. From that day on, the king not only wore his new leather shoes but also encouraged his people to find creative solutions to their problems rather than making unrealistic demands. He ruled with even greater wisdom, always remembering that true leadership comes from understanding and adapting rather than forcing unnecessary change. Thus, the kingdom continued to prosper, and the story of the wise king and his leather shoes was passed down for generations as a lesson in practicality, wisdom, and perspective.