Challenge #26: The Two Lumberjacks

Two lumberjacks were in a tree-cutting contest.  Both were strong and determined, hoping to win the prize.  But one was hardworking and ambitious, chopping down every tree in his path at the fastest pace possible, while the other appeared to be a little more laid back, methodically felling trees and pacing himself.

The go-getter worked all day, skipping his lunch break, expecting that his superior effort would be rewarded.  His opponent, however, took an hour-long lunch; then resumed his steady pace.

In the end, the eager beaver was dismayed to lose to his "lazier" competition.  Thinking he deserved to win after his hard work, he finally approached his opponent and said, "I just don't understand.  I worked longer and harder than you, and went hungry to get ahead.  You took a break, and yet you still won.  It just doesn't seem fair.  Where did I go wrong?"

The winner responded, "While I was taking my lunch break, I was sharpening my axe."

(Harvey MacKay)