"Æsop: Slave, Storyteller, Philosopher"

     Sometime between the end of the sixth century and the beginning of the seventh century B.C. lived a slave whose name was Æsop. It is believed, he lived somewhere around the Greek city state of Thrace. Æsop gained his popularity through storytelling, a particular type of story known as a fable. Most of Æsop's fables involved animals which he brought to life through personification (the giving of humanistic qualities to objects which do not normally bare such traits).

    Each story Æsoptold was accompanied by a moral; or lesson.  Through his storytelling Æsop eventually earned his freedom and became so popular that he was often called on to entertain large bodies of aristocrats and nobles.  

    Even today Æsop's fables retain there popularity, and his morals you'll find popping up quite frequently in the American language, even though many people do not know where the sayings came from.  By using animals and placing them in situations which require some thought and understanding to overcome their problems Æsop has created a wonderful group of timeless tales. So, "respect the wisdom of those who came before you," and take some time to read a few. Perhaps through your reading you may find some sound advice.