Six Blind Men of Industan, The
| Category: | Leadership |
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| Notes: | A parable about six blind men encountering an elephant, illustrating the importance of listening, cooperation, and recognizing different perspectives. |
There's an old story from India about six blind men who had never encountered an elephant. One day, they were led to the great beast and allowed to touch it, each hoping to understand what an elephant was.
The first touched the side and said, "An elephant is like a wall."
The second grabbed the tusk: "No, it's like a spear!"
The third held the trunk: "You're both wrong—it's like a snake."
The fourth felt the knee and said, "Clearly, it's a tree."
The fifth touched the ear: "No, no—it's a fan."
The sixth grasped the tail: "You're all wrong. It's a rope."
They argued and argued, each certain they were right. After all, they had each experienced the elephant for themselves. But none of them saw the whole truth.
Scouts, we all come from different backgrounds. We all have different experiences. When you work in a patrol, lead a crew, or help at a service project, you won't always agree. And that's okay.
But before you argue, take time to listen. What's true for you might be part of a bigger truth you can't yet see. That's how we grow. That's how we lead. That's how we become whole.
It's not about who's right. It's about working together to see the full picture—elephant and all.