Risk & Business Magazine General Insurance Services Spring 2020 | Page 20

OPTIMISM Your Stubborn Optimism Is Contributing To Your Success 20 O ne day, the farmer’s horse jumps the fence and runs off. The farmer’s neighbor stops by and says, “I’m so sorry. That’s terrible news.” The farmer shrugs and says, “Who knows if it’s good or bad news.” Several days later, the horse returns with six wild horses who have followed him home. The neighbor stops by and says, “That’s amazing! What wonderful luck!” The farmer shrugs and says, “Who knows if it’s good or bad news.” Soon after the wild horses have come to live in their pasture, the farmer’s son is thrown from a horse while trying to tame it. He breaks his leg in the fall and is bound to a wheelchair while he heals. The neighbor stops by and says, “What a horrible accident. I’m so sorry for your son and your family.” The farmer shrugs and says, “Who knows if it’s good or bad news.” While his son is healing in his wheelchair, the militia marches through the town, conscripting all able-bodied young people to serve in the war. The farmer’s son is spared from serving in the military. Again, the neighbor stops by and says, “What fortune that your son does not have to join the army.”