The Starfruit Tree

Long ago in Vietnam, two brothers lived together after their parents died. When they divided the family property, the older brother took the house, the fields, and most of the animals. He left his younger brother only a small hut and a starfruit tree.

The younger brother did not complain. He and his wife worked hard and cared for the tree. When the season came, it filled with ripe golden starfruit. They hoped to sell the fruit and buy rice.

One morning, a huge bird flew down and began eating the starfruit. The younger brother sadly asked the bird to leave some fruit for his family. The bird replied that for every fruit it ate, it would repay him with gold. It told him to sew a small bag and be ready the next day.

The next morning, the bird carried the younger brother across mountains and sea to a distant island covered with gold and jewels. Remembering the bird's instructions, he filled only his small bag. The bird carried him safely home, and he used the treasure wisely. He repaired his house, bought food, and helped neighbors who were poor.

When the older brother heard what had happened, he suddenly wanted the starfruit tree. He offered to trade all his property for the little hut and tree. The younger brother agreed.

When the great bird returned, the older brother complained about the fruit it ate. The bird made the same promise and told him to bring a small bag. But the older brother secretly made an enormous bag because he wanted as much treasure as possible.

On the island, he filled the huge bag with gold until it was far too heavy. During the journey home, the bird struggled to carry him. The older brother lost much of the treasure and returned with almost nothing.

He finally understood that greed had caused his trouble. The younger brother welcomed him and shared what he had. The story reminds us that contentment and generosity can bring happiness, while greed can make us lose what truly matters.
