Motivation logo
Content warning
This story may contain sensitive material or discuss topics that some readers may find distressing. Reader discretion is advised. The views and opinions expressed in this story are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of Vocal.

The Farmer’s Lesson: Luck vs. Success

“Why Fortune Fades but Hard Work Remains”

By Sami UllahPublished 4 months ago 4 min read

In a quiet kingdom between the mountains and the sea, two invisible forces ruled the lives of people: Luck and Success. They were not kings or queens, nor were they gods. Yet, every man, woman, and child felt their presence in daily life.

Luck was whimsical. He wandered freely, often dressed in bright, unpredictable colors. Sometimes he arrived suddenly, dropping gold coins in a beggar’s bowl or guiding a fisherman’s net to a school of fish. Other times, he disappeared when most needed, leaving behind frustration.

Success, on the other hand, was disciplined and steady. She wore robes stitched with patience and hard work. She did not arrive suddenly but moved slowly, one step at a time, always rewarding those who invited her through effort, persistence, and wisdom.

For centuries, the two forces lived in quiet rivalry. People argued endlessly: Is life driven more by Luck or by Success?

The Farmer’s Sons

One day, in the village of Daryan, there lived an old farmer named Rahim. He had two sons—Amir and Zayan. Rahim, who had seen much of the world, wanted to teach his sons the truth about Luck and Success before he died.

So, he summoned both of them and said:

“Go out into the world for five years. Amir, you will seek Luck. Zayan, you will seek Success. Return to me after your journeys, and tell me what you have found.”

The brothers obeyed. Amir packed lightly, confident that fortune would smile on him. Zayan carried tools, books, and a small plow, determined to build his path with his own hands.

Amir and the Charm of Luck

Amir wandered from town to town. On his first day, he stumbled upon a lottery ticket someone had dropped. He bought it cheaply, and by sunset, he had become a rich man.

With his newfound wealth, he feasted in the grandest inns and wore fine clothes. Wherever he went, people admired him. “How fortunate you are!” they said. And Amir agreed, smiling proudly.

But Luck, being fickle, did not stay. A storm sank the merchant ship carrying his treasures. Thieves stole his remaining gold. In a single night, Amir found himself penniless. He begged Luck to return, but Luck only laughed and whispered, “I come and go as I please.”

Amir, though disappointed, never lost hope. He kept wandering, waiting for Luck to visit again. And sometimes, indeed, it did. A kind stranger gave him a meal; a lost coin glimmered on the road. But just as often, misfortune followed. Amir’s journey was a seesaw of rise and fall.

Zayan and the Path of Success

Meanwhile, Zayan walked to a barren valley where no one lived. With steady hands, he tilled the soil, planted seeds, and built a small hut. The land was dry, and rain was scarce. Many times, his crops failed. He went hungry more than once.

But Zayan studied the wind, the soil, and the rivers. He dug channels to guide water into his fields. Slowly, green shoots began to appear. Season after season, his farm grew. He shared food with travelers, who in return taught him new skills. One showed him how to craft strong tools; another taught him how to trade fairly in the market.

Years passed, and Zayan’s once-barren valley turned into a flourishing village. People came to live there, grateful for his wisdom and leadership. They called the place Nawaab, meaning born from effort.

The Return Home

Five years later, both brothers returned to their father’s home.

Amir arrived first, wearing worn-out clothes. His eyes still sparkled with hope but carried the weight of disappointment.

“Father,” he said, “Luck is sweet, but it is a dream. It comes suddenly, and it leaves suddenly. I chased it, but it never stayed.”

Soon after, Zayan entered, strong and confident. Behind him walked a group of villagers who respected him as their leader.

“Father,” he said, “Success is slow, but it is faithful. It demands work, patience, and courage. I built something that cannot be taken away overnight.”

Rahim listened carefully and smiled. “My sons, you have learned what I hoped you would. Luck may give you a spark, but only Success can keep the fire burning.”

The Meeting of Luck and Success

That night, as Rahim slept peacefully, Luck and Success met in the quiet courtyard. Luck twirled a coin in his fingers and chuckled, “See? Without me, Amir would never have tasted wealth or adventure.”

Success folded her arms and replied, “True. But without me, Zayan would never have built a future that endures.”

For the first time, the two forces laughed together. They realized they were not enemies but partners. Luck could open a door, but only Success could build the house inside. Success could create foundations, but Luck could sometimes provide the spark that made life joyful.

From that night on, the villagers of Daryan taught their children:

“Welcome Luck when it visits, but never depend on it. Seek Success with effort, for she will always walk beside those who persist.”

adviceself helpsuccessgoals

About the Creator

Sami Ullah

Reader insights

Be the first to share your insights about this piece.

How does it work?

Add your insights

Comments

There are no comments for this story

Be the first to respond and start the conversation.

Sign in to comment

    Find us on social media

    Miscellaneous links

    • Explore
    • Contact
    • Privacy Policy
    • Terms of Use
    • Support

    © 2026 Creatd, Inc. All Rights Reserved.