A few years ago, during a period when I travelled frequently for work, my driver and I were involved in a serious accident.
The cause? Large stones used as roadblocks by security operatives were left unattended on the road long after duty hours. Even those living in that community didn't find a need to take it out.
That experience reminded me of an old story titled “A Good Deed Rewarded.”
The King’s Experiment
King Arund had grown tired of his people’s constant complaints. They wanted the government to handle everything, even the most trivial tasks. To teach them a lasting lesson, he secretly ordered that a large stone be placed in the centre of the City Square one night.
The next morning, people began to pass by. A merchant, annoyed at the obstruction, refused to move the stone. He insisted it was the government’s responsibility. Others also complained, cursed, or found ways to manoeuvre around it, but no one made an effort to remove it.
The Farmer Who Chose Action
Hours later, a farmer carrying vegetables for sale came along. Without hesitation, he dropped his basket and tried to roll the heavy stone away.
Many people nearby refused to help, each giving different excuses.
After struggling for a while, the farmer finally managed to move it. To his surprise, beneath the stone lay a purse filled with money.
On top was a note that read:
“A gift from the King to the one who removes this stone.”
Overjoyed, the farmer shared the good news with others and even distributed part of the money. Word spread quickly throughout the town.
A Change in the People’s Mindset
From that day on, whenever the townspeople saw an obstacle on the road, they eagerly tried to remove it hoping there might be another reward.
Most times, they found nothing but flowers or humorous notes that made them smile.
Yet, something beautiful happened: they became a more united and responsible community. They realised that helping others, even without a reward, brought a deep sense of joy and fulfilment.
Lessons for Today’s World
The same principle applies in modern life. Many organisations use reward systems to encourage responsibility and excellence.
In some offices, “Staff of the Month” awards motivate employees to perform better.
In my children’s football club, they recognise the “Most Improved Player”, not necessarily the best player, but the one who consistently works to get better.
These simple gestures inspire effort, teamwork, and a sense of purpose.
What About You?
What kind of reward system can you introduce today to make the people around you strive for improvement?
It could be within your family, workplace, community, or place of worship.
Rewards do not always have to be financial; sometimes, a simple word of appreciation can make all the difference.
Final Thoughts
Responsibility begins with the small actions we choose to take, even when it seems like no one is watching.
When we take initiative and motivate others to do the same, we strengthen our communities and build a culture of progress.
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