One day, Nasrudin Hodja took his son along with him to the market. They bought a donkey and on their way home, Nasrudin let his son ride the donkey while he walked along beside them.
They had not travelled far before they came across people criticizing them loudly. “See, this is what I keep telling you about today’s youth! They have no respect for their elders. Look at that lazy son riding the donkey and making his poor old father walk.” someone remarked.
Hearing this, Nasrudin had his son come down and mounted the donkey himself. He was sure that people would be satisfied now.
Soon, they passed other travelers who commented harshly, “Look at that! That poor young boy has to walk under the hot sun while his father rides the donkey proudly with ease.”
Nasrudin was confused. He decided the best thing would be for both of them to walk. Surely, no one could complain then!
So, Nasrudin and his son continued their journey, walking alongside the donkey. A little further down, they heard a group of people chattering. “Look at those silly fools! They are both walking under this hot sun and neither of them are riding the donkey!”
“They may as well just carry the donkey home!” another ridiculed.
“I wonder which of them is the biggest donkey!” a girl laughed.
Nasrudin turned to his son and said, “Son, people will judge you no matter what you do, so you may as well do what you want!”