Human Nature

Gretchen Rubin did a Little Happier podcast about the fable The Scorpion and the Frog, and I have been thinking about it ever since.

The story…The scorpion asks the frog to carry it across a river. The frog is afraid, but the scorpion argues that it would never sting it because they both would drown. The frog agrees, and halfway across the river, the scorpion stings the frog.

“Why did you sting me when you knew what would happen?” says the frog.

The scorpion replies, “I couldn’t help it. It’s in my nature.”

My addition to the story…Just as the frog and scorpion are about to drown, the water turtle swims by and carries both to shore. The turtle keeps its head in and legs underwater. The frog eventually recovers from the scorpion’s sting.

I propose that the scorpion and frog represent parts of ourselves, and the turtle as well.

Scorpion – The scorpion knows the frog is willing to help, but no matter how much it tries to convince itself otherwise, it will destroy the frog if given the chance. SELF-SABOTAGE

Frog – The frog wants to help the scorpion, but even with a safeguard in place, it will be destroyed by the scorpion if it leaves itself vulnerable. SELF-SABOTAGE

Turtle – The turtle wants to help both the scorpion and frog, and can do so because it has proper protection and mobility. SELF-AWARENESS

We all have these parts. Your scorpion is no more a villain than your frog is a fool. Your turtle happens to have armor, but the reason it comes to the rescue is because it recognizes the nature of all involved. Your turtle sees clearly.

Keep this fable in mind as you go through your day.

• Are you assessing yourself and others through clear eyes?
• Are you paying attention to your gut?
• Frog, tell Scorpion you can’t help it across the river. Scorpion, don’t put your issues on Frog. Turtle, you rock.

Aside: I was at a bridal shower for my cousin the other day. Question for the groom: What superhero would you be? His answer: Aquaman, so I could talk to sea turtles. Is that the best answer, or what?

Be inspired. Go forth. Create your day.