Urashima Taro was a young fisherman who lived in a quiet seaside village. He was gentle, humble, and loved the ocean more than anything. Every morning, he cast his net into the calm waters, hoping not just for fish, but for peace.
One day, as he was walking along the beach, he saw a group of children gathered around something. Curious, he came closer—and was shocked to see a small turtle being poked and kicked for fun. Urashima couldn’t bear the sight. “Stop that,” he said calmly but firmly. The children hesitated. “Why should we?” one of them asked. “It’s just a turtle.” But to Urashima, it wasn’t just a turtle. It was a living creature, scared and helpless. Without raising his voice, he took a few coins from his pouch and handed them to the children. “Here. Buy yourself something. But let the turtle go.” Surprised but happy to take the money, the children ran off laughing. Urashima knelt down and gently picked up the turtle. Its shell was scratched, its eyes dull with fear. He carried it to the edge of the sea and placed it in the surf. The turtle didn’t swim away at first. It lingered, as if it understood something. Then, with a final glance, it slipped beneath the waves and disappeared into the deep. Urashima stood watching the ripples, not knowing that this small act of kindness would change his life forever.