The Boy and the Nettles

by Aesop

A BOY was stung by a Nettle. He ran home and told his mother, saying: Although it pains me so much, I did but touch it ever so gently. That was just it, said his mother: which caused it to sting you. The next time you touch a Nettle, grasp it boldly, and it will be soft as silk to your hand, and not in the least hurt you.

Moral:
Whatever you do, do with all your might.

Source:

Aesop's Fables
Copyright 1881
Translator: unknown
WM. L. Allison, New York
Illustrator: Harrison Weir, John Tenniel, Ernest Griset, et.al.