The Parable Of The Forgotten Gardener: A Story About Gratitude

In a small kingdom, nestled among rolling hills, stood a palace surrounded by gardens that seemed to breathe life itself. The flowers danced with every breeze, the trees whispered ancient secrets, and fountains sang of serenity. These gardens were the pride of the land, admired by travelers and cherished by citizens. Yet, no one knew the name of the gardener, Liora, whose tireless hands and loving heart nurtured every bloom.

Prince Darius often wandered these magical gardens, his mind calmed by their beauty. He admired them, but he never stopped to wonder how they remained so perfect. To him, the gardens were just… there, as dependable as the sunrise.

But then, the drought came.

The rivers dried, the grass browned, and the flowers bowed under an unforgiving sun. Despite her relentless efforts—hauling water from distant wells and whispering hope into the soil—Liora could not hold back the devastation. The gardens withered, and with them, the spirit of the kingdom dimmed.

Darius, confused and irritated by the lifeless gardens, demanded answers. His advisors spoke of the drought, but Darius was unsatisfied. Anger clouding his thoughts, he stormed into the gardens, seeking someone to blame.

Under the shade of a dying tree, he found Tomas, an old farmer with eyes that saw beyond the surface.

“Why are the gardens dying?” Darius demanded. “Why can’t anyone save them?”

Tomas, with a knowing smile, replied, “The gardens are a gift, Your Highness. Gifts thrive on gratitude, and gratitude begins with acknowledgment. Have you ever thanked the one who gave this beauty to you?”

The prince faltered. He had never considered the gardener behind the splendor. Ashamed, he asked, “What can I do? I’ve taken so much for granted.”

“Find the gardener,” Tomas said. “Let them know they are seen, valued, and appreciated. Gratitude has a way of restoring life—even in drought.”

Darius found Liora the next day, her hands caked with soil, still fighting for the gardens she loved. He approached her humbly, his voice trembling.

“Liora,” he began, “I see you now. I see your dedication, your care, and the beauty you’ve given this kingdom. I’ve taken it all for granted, and I’m deeply sorry. Thank you—for everything.”

Liora, startled and touched, replied, “Thank you, Your Highness. Even in the hardest times, the garden has always been my joy.”

From that moment, something shifted. The gardens began to heal—not just with the rains that eventually returned, but with the gratitude that now flowed freely between the prince and the gardener.

The Lesson

We are all gardeners of something—our businesses, our relationships, our dreams. Yet, we often forget to tend them with gratitude, love, and care. Gratitude has the power to revive what seems lost and nurture what remains.

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Would you be grateful to have a business mentor who helps you nurture your business garden?

With the right guidance, your business can bloom—no matter the drought. Together, we’ll plant seeds of growth, tend to what matters, and watch as beauty and abundance take root.

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