Fern and bamboo seeds were planted in the woods. Each were given equal amounts of water, sunlight, and nourishment.
The fern quickly grew from the earth, its brilliant fronds soon covering the forest floor. Yet nothing came from the bamboo seed.
The following year, the fern grew more splendidly than before, but still nothing came from the bamboo seed.
In the third and fourth years, the fern remained lovely as ever, while the bamboo still had not surfaced.
In the fifth year, a tiny sprout emerged from the earth. Compared to the fern, it seemed small and insignificant. Day by day it grew, first a shoot, then a seedling, and finally a cane.
Within six months, the bamboo cane had risen to the height of 50 meters. It had spent five years growing roots. Those roots made it strong and gave it what it needed to survive. Without them, the bamboo may have washed away.
The bamboo has a different purpose than the fern, yet they both make the forest beautiful. Do not compare yourself to others: your time will come.
“If nothing seems like it is happening in your life, despite all the work you’re putting in, remember that you’re probably growing roots, not fruit. Stick with it. One day not far from now, there’ll be a fantastic harvest.” –Author Unknown