Listen to Your Inner Voice

Long ago, a wood carver named Matsugoro found himself gazing at The Tall One. Standing proud and almighty, this tree cast the longest shadow in the village. Because of its indomitable presence throughout hundreds of years, it became the hub of this village. With a sigh, he stared at it every day while carting his wares to sell on the streets.

As a child, Matsugoro used to climb every tree that he set his eyes on - all but The Tall One. He felt free and fearless. He was so daring that he was called the Monkey Boy. He didn't just think about doing things, he did them. When he reached the top of each tree, he yelled in a clear and loud voice allowing his spirit to soar.

Years passed. Adulthood took over and Matsugoro soon found that being so uninhibited was frowned upon by his fellow villagers. Family life and hard work were the expected routine. His own work absorbed most of the time and away he toiled. He turned serious and quiet. His dreams faded and he no longer felt like the Monkey Boy<>