The Astronomer

An Astronomer used to go out every night to observe the stars. One evening, as he wandered through the outskirts of the city with his eyes fixed upon the heavens, he fell into a deep well.

A neighbor heard his cries and came running. When he learned what had happened, he could not help but laugh. Here you are, he said, so busy looking at the sky that you cannot even see what is at your own feet.

The Astronomer was helped out of the well, wet and embarrassed. He had learned a valuable lesson — that theoretical knowledge without practical awareness is incomplete wisdom. Keep your eyes on the stars, but do not forget to watch your step.