This, That and the Other Thing

Gondor Is a Bowl of Cherries

It was market day. The land, once scorched and black, was now green and fruitful, its bounty not only the fruit of the earth and water, but also the hope that grew in the people's hearts.

He grabbed his young son's hand, making sure the boy did not run off and get lost in the crowd.

"What is your favorite thing here, Papa?"

"I like everything, lad. But I like cherries the most."

"Why cherries?"

"Because cherries are much like people. They come in many different shapes and sizes, and at first, they don't seem quite as good as they look, but if you are patient, you will discover that they are unexpectedly sweet at the end."