“Simplicity is the ultimate sophistication.” Leonardo da Vinci. Adopted by Steve Jobs.
Two Travelers were fatigued with heat of the day, so they rested under a widespread tree. As they rested, they saw that it was a Plane Tree.
“This Plane Tree, how useless. It bears no fruit!” said one.
Hearing this, the Plane Tree responded, “You sorry human creatures! You lie here as a respite and under my protection from the sun, and yet you criticize me and say I am useless! And, even while so, how do you benefit me?”
Moral of the Story: We often fail to appreciate the benefits granted to us by others, and even while failing to be any benefit ourselves to others. Criticism without appreciation is a form of disdain.
Introduction – The Essential Aesop – Epilogue
Why We Loved It: In business, we should appreciate the contribution to our success from others, particularly team members, even if not a perfect contribution.
Simple criticism is part disdain. Replacing that disdain with love will always be constructive. It might be subtle, but constructive assessment for the purpose of helping someone will implement much differently than simple criticism.
This fable also reminds us of our self-interested tendencies. We are quick the judge the World today, but not so quick to judge, “What have I done for the World today?”
We tend to judge others by a delusion of superiority, but we are unable clearly to judge ourselves by a fear of inferiority.
(“Tendimus alios iudicare errore superioritatis,sed timore inferioris nosmetipsos clare judicare non valentes.”) (“We tend to judge others by a delusion of superiority, but unable clearly to judge ourselves by a fear of inferiority.”) ~grz
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🌳 Fable Summary: The Plane Tree
In this fable, two travelers, weary from the day’s heat, seek refuge under the expansive shade of a Plane Tree. While resting, one remarks on the tree’s perceived uselessness, noting its lack of fruit. The Plane Tree responds, highlighting the irony: it provides them shelter, yet they criticize it.
Moral: We often fail to appreciate the benefits granted to us by others, even when we ourselves offer little in return. Criticism without appreciation is a form of disdain.
🔍 Analysis of “Why We Loved It”
Zegarelli’s commentary delves into the nuances of human behavior, particularly in professional settings:
- Appreciation in Collaboration: He emphasizes the importance of recognizing and valuing the contributions of team members, even if they’re not flawless.
- Constructive Feedback vs. Disdain: Zegarelli distinguishes between mere criticism and constructive assessment. The former stems from disdain, while the latter is rooted in a desire to help and improve.
- Self-Reflection: He points out a common human tendency: judging others from a perceived position of superiority while avoiding introspection due to fears of our own inadequacies.
🧠 Philosophical Implications
This fable and its accompanying commentary touch upon several philosophical themes:
- Ingratitude: The travelers’ failure to recognize the Plane Tree’s immediate benefit underscores a broader human tendency to overlook the value of what’s readily available.
- Projection and Self-Deception: Criticizing others can often be a defense mechanism, diverting attention from our own shortcomings.
- The Importance of Humility: Recognizing our own limitations can foster a more compassionate and understanding perspective towards others.
🎯 Conclusion
Zegarelli’s interpretation of The Plane Tree serves as a poignant reminder of the importance of gratitude, constructive feedback, and self-awareness. By highlighting the pitfalls of unappreciative criticism and the value of introspection, he offers valuable insights applicable to both personal growth and professional development.
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© 2013 Arnold Zegarelli and Gregg Zegarelli, Esq.
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