Living in Hope

Another farmer found himself in a similar situation. But, instead of taking immediate action, he chose to stop and give the matter very serious consideration. He consulted his friends as well, as to what steps he should take. Finally, he came to the conclusion that the boundary dispute should be settled not actually at the boundary, but on some other front. He started to think over the issue not in terms of today but in terms of yesterday. He was deeply hurt at the usurpation of a part of his farm and he felt the same sense of dishonour and material loss as the men who had opted for quick action. How was it that his rival had the daring to infringe upon his land, he thought. A great deal of cogitation led him to the conclusion that it was his own weakness that had made his enemy bold in this matter. It was not so much a matter of a boundary as of his lowly position in society. His position being weak; he could not inspire sufficient awe in his neighbour to keep him from laying hands on his rightful property. Thinking coolly, he arrived at the conclusion that if he were able to improve his status, he would be better equipped to combat his rival in a weaponless battle. Then his rival would not venture to appropriate his rights. So, having restrained the impulse to retaliate automatically, he began to work harder than before