The Almoner's Oath🔊

In a small village named Elmsworth, nestled at the edge of an emerald green woodland, lived a man named Willard. He was an almoner, the one chosen by the villagers entrusted to gather and distribute alms to the needy. Willard was known for his kind heart and relentless service.

One day, Willard received word that a poor, old woman named Mabel needed help on the neighbouring hillside. Willard's responsibility was to ensure aid reaches such souls, and he was eager to extend help. He filled his satchel with food, firewood and bundled up in his cloak, readying himself for his journey.

The path up the hillside was treacherous, filled with rocky terrain and blindsided turns, but Willard welcomed such difficulties, viewing them as small prices to pay in fulfilling his duty. As he climbed the hill, the sky began to blacken, cold winds howled, and a formidable storm began to brew.

Arriving at Mabel's house, Willard found her trembling in cold, with no food left to eat. Tearful gratitude shone in Mabel's eyes when Willard handed her the supplies. He lit a fire, warmed up her modest abode and sat with her, lending a listening ear to her stories, brightening her spirits.

While Willard was engrossed with Mabel, the storm outside intensified. When it was time for Willard to leave, he found the weather conditions completely hostile. Facing the storm would be dangerous, but the thought of abandoning his duty was even more daunting.

So, Willard decided to brave the storm. He tightened his cloak, prepared his lantern, and stepped out into the tempest. However, as he began his descent, a fierce gust of wind blew out his lantern, and he lost his footing. Tumbling down the slippery trail, Willard's head hit a rock, his consciousness slipping away.

Next thing he knew, he was in a warm, cosy room with sunlight flooding in from a window. Aseem, the local woodcutter had found him unconscious, brought him home, tended to his wounds. A sense of relief washed over him. He realised that his service had not been forgotten; his dedication had touched the hearts of the villagers, leading Aseem to his rescue.

The ordeal left Willard with a persistent ill-health, and he could no longer perform his duties as the almoner. Initially devastated, he was soon overwhelmed by the shower of affection from the villagers. They all stepped up, sharing the responsibility of collecting and distributing alms, vowing to continue the service he had begun.

As the villagers rallied, Willard saw his role evolve from that of an almoner to a mentor. He found joy in guiding and teaching others, sharing his knowledge and experiences. And in doing so, he found that he was still serving his purpose, honouring his oath in a different, yet meaningful way.

The story of Willard is a testament to the power of dedication and the spirit of sacrifice. It teaches us that when we dedicate ourselves to serving others, no act goes unnoticed, no effort underrated. Even in the darkest storm, kindness and perseverance can be the beacon, guiding those lost back towards the light.