“The Selfish Giant” is a short story written by Oscar Wilde. It’s a beautiful tale that imparts a valuable moral lesson. Here’s a summary:
Once upon a time, there was a giant who owned a beautiful garden. However, he was selfish and did not want to share it with anyone. The giant built a high wall around the garden and put up a notice that said, “Trespassers will be prosecuted.”
As a result, the garden became eternally winter, and no children were allowed to play in it. The giant enjoyed the solitude, but the garden lost its joy and vibrancy.
One day, the giant noticed that, despite the perpetual winter, a small corner of his garden was in bloom. Curious, he discovered that a group of children had found a hole in the wall and were playing in that little spot. The giant realized his mistake and felt remorse for his selfishness.
The giant’s heart softened, and he decided to tear down the wall and invite the children into his garden. As soon as he did, spring returned to the entire garden, and it became a place of joy and laughter once again.
One day, the giant saw a boy who bore the marks of the Crucifixion on his hands and feet. The giant asked the boy who he was, and the boy replied, “You let me play once in your garden, and today, you shall come with me to my garden, which is Paradise.”
The story teaches us the importance of generosity, kindness, and the joy that comes from sharing. It illustrates how selfishness and exclusion can lead to a barren and cold existence, while compassion and inclusion can bring warmth, happiness, and even spiritual fulfilment.
