The Parable of the Old Farmer: Finding Wisdom in Uncertainty

There’s a timeless parable about an old farmer that carries a deep and simple wisdom—a reminder of how we approach the constant changes and challenges of life.

There once was an old farmer. One day, his only horse ran away.

Hearing the news, all the neighbours in the village said to the old man, “What a terrible loss, such bad luck!”

The old man replied, “Maybe yes, maybe no. We’ll see.”

A few days later, the horse returned to the farm, accompanied by seven wild horses. “Wow, that’s incredible! What good luck!” his neighbours exclaimed.

“Maybe yes, maybe no. We’ll see!” the old farmer replied.

The next day, the farmer’s only son attempted to ride one of the wild horses. The horse threw him, and he broke both of his legs. The neighbours said, “I’m so sorry, that is such horrible news. What misfortune.”

The man simply replied, “Maybe yes, maybe no. We’ll see.”

Soon after, the country found itself at war and every able-bodied young man was drafted to fight.

But the farmer’s son was spared because of his injuries. “You must be so happy, what great news! Such luck for your family,” said the neighbours.

And the old farmer simply replied, “Maybe yes, maybe no. We’ll see!”

This parable is a profound reminder of the unpredictability of life. What may appear as good or bad in any given moment is often revealed to be something else entirely with time. The farmer’s wisdom lies in his ability to remain steady, refusing to label events as fortunate or unfortunate. He embraces life with an open mind, allowing things to unfold without jumping to conclusions.

This perspective can serve as a gentle nudge for us in our own lives. Whether we face adversity or joy, we can remind ourselves that life’s true outcomes often take time to reveal themselves. The practice of patience, acceptance, and detachment from judgment allows us to find balance and peace through every twist and turn.

In the end, maybe it’s not about labelling life’s events as “good” or “bad,” but instead, learning to flow with the natural unfolding of life, trusting that things will make sense in their own time.

So next time you encounter an unexpected challenge or surprise, pause and remember the old farmer’s words: “Maybe yes, maybe no. We’ll see.”