This story happened a long time ago, somewhere in Europe, in the middle of a bitter winter. There was a terrible famine throughout the land. In the villages, people were so hungry that each family
kept their food hidden away, so that no one else would be able to find it. They hardly spoke to each other, and if any food was found, they fought over it.
One day, a poor traveler arrived in a village and set up his tent by the side of the road.He had with him a large pot, a wooden spoon, and a stone.
"You can't stay here," said the villagers. "there's no food for you!" And they raced back to their houses to make sure no one would steal their food while they were away.
"That doesn't matter," said the stranger. "I have everything I need.