Kent

Once, not too long ago, and not too far away, there was a sleepy little kingdom that was beset by dragons, ogres and goblins.

Into this kingdom came three wizards, ready to wield their craft and aid the people of the kingdom. Each one came with differing skills and spells, and their own way of solving the problems of the kingdom.

The first wizard was one of great power and might, but he was also proud, boastful and secretive. He wielded his magic only within his tower, and spent his time outside reminding others of his skill, and telling everyone how the other wizards chanted their spells incorrectly. He did not listen to the wailings of the people, but instead told them how he would fix their problem, if only they would give in to his wisdom.

The second wizard came and listened to the people, and cried with them in their pain. However, this wizard carried a hidden secret -- he was a wizard without spell. Oh, he knew the thaumaturgic incantations, the orientations and morphisms, the power in tiering and the style of enchantments. However, when he tried those incantations, nothing came out. Still, the people viewed him as a great wizard, and listened to his guidance.

The third wizard was one of great power and learning; he practiced his craft at day and night. He listened to the people and aided them in their time of need, but he also prepared spells that they didn't ask for. When the people saw these spells, they were doubly amazed, for these spells actually helped them more than the spells they asked for. Day and night, the third wizard toiled, becoming more and more adept. Even greater spells lept from his tower, helping the farmers grow crops, the smiths to work their metal and even to amuse the children.

After a time, the people grew tired of the boastful wizard, and they chased him from the kindgom, rather than subvert to his wishes. The second wizard, ever fearful that people would find out his dark secret, left the kingdom one night in secret; leaving the people without his consul. Only the third wizard remained, ever improving his craft, but at the same time making the people ever more dependant on his skills to do their jobs. To this day, the third wizard remains, and only time, and fate, and the people will know how this story will end.

Now, what lesson can we learn from this little tale?