The Pitcher

Have you heard about the tragedy of the little pitcher? He heard a thirsty man calling for water from his sick-bed in a corner of a room. The pitcher was so full of compassion for the man that by a supreme effort of will he actually managed to roll to within an inch of the sufferer's hand.

When the man opened his eyes and saw a pitcher beside him, he was full of wonderment and relief. He managed to pick up the jug and held it to his lips. Then he realized that it was empty. With almost the last remains of his strength, the invalid threw the pitcher against a wall, where it smashed into useless pieces of clay...

... The Magic Monastery, Idries Shah