THE UNCROSSABLE BRIDGE

“if you stop working hard, I will fire you and hire another one”, said the coachman to his old mule that is suffering from weariness and inconsistency.

In fact, the mule complained about the heavy burden to carry on every trip. It has worked the whole life serving the coachman and his clients. The horse worked for the coachman’s father with steadiness and dedication and has shown obedience to his employer and was never reluctant or idle.

In contrast, the mule master has made money and never paid his employee a raise or even catch a glimpse to its suffering. He always says to himself: “The mule is to serve me and my family. I own its life and my blessing illuminates it. I feed it and even give it a shelter, if it claims any further advantages it will be just an expression of greed and rebellion since I saved it from hunger, unemployment and homelessness.”

He does believe that the master saves the life of serfs that must be grateful and satisfied. Therefore, The serf on its turn should show thankfulness for the gifts provided by the master.

“we make rules, impose justice and shape the whole economic and social system to guarantee stability and peace. Without our work and wisdom, anarchy will arise and ruin the whole country. We work hard so that the others relax. We save them worry and danger and at least they must show us obedience.” the coachman said to himself.

The mule sees his life flying in a blink of an eye without getting its moral and material reward. It lacks a vision and its family will lead and go through the bitterness of the same hardship. The dream of climbing the social hierarchy and leaving the eternal class of the poverty stricken seems to remain an illusion.

“we need to talk and you have to listen to me. I have many rights to claim”, the mule said in a sharp tone that seemed a little aggressive.

“I am not forced to listen to you but I will be more patient and generous as I have always been. Go ahead!”

The mule cleared its throat and started to cite its expectations:
“First I deserve a raise pay for the heavy labour I am used to doing. Second, I am getting old and I deserve some pension. Third, the future of my children depends to my own vision not yours. They aren’t to serve you.”

The employer burst into laughter and said scornfully:
“I have always been generous and kind to you because I was never satisfied with your work and I let you receive the same salary though. You and your children are to serve me and you must be proud of such an honour. Anyway your service isn’t needed anymore. You became a flame of rebellion and anarchy and I will send you to prison if you don’t leave at once.”

The mule kept still for seconds then looked straight at the eyes of the coachman and said:
“Then expect a revolution of dignity to death. My days are numbered and I have nothing to lose, how about you?”
“your life or death doesn’t matter. Mules are everywhere and ready to work for the half of your salary’, the coachman replied.

Then silence prevailed.