In a quiet valley, surrounded by old pines, there was a lake that people had long forgotten. Its water was dark, and the stones lying at the bottom kept their secrets hidden. But the strangest thing was the shadow that always lingered over the lake, never leaving it by day or night.
The locals said the lake was alive. It could hear the rustling in the forest, feel the wind, and even change color if it sensed something dangerous. But no one knew where the shadow came from.
One day, a wanderer, lost in these lands, stumbled upon the lake. It immediately caught his attention. The shadow, as if alive, enveloped him and whispered softly. The wanderer was not afraid. He sat by the water and began to talk to the shadow, not knowing if anyone would hear him.
"Why are you here?" he asked.
The shadow quivered and answered in a voice like the rustle of leaves, "I am the fear and doubt of people. I exist because they cannot let go of their worries. Every time someone leaves their sorrow or pain at this lake, I grow stronger."
The wanderer smiled. He realized that the shadow was not evil but merely a reflection of human nature. Instead of running away, he began telling the shadow stories-of joy, hope, and new beginnings. With each word, the shadow grew lighter until it disappeared entirely, leaving the lake to shine in pure light.
When the wanderer left the valley, he left behind only a clear lake and a gentle breeze that no longer carried anxiety.