The three rafters and the genie
An Englishman, an American, and a Japanese man were enjoying a day of white-water rafting when they suddenly heard a tremendous roar ahead.
They looked up and realized they were heading straight toward a massive waterfall that none of them had noticed on the way down.
Just as they began to panic, a genie suddenly appeared beside their raft.
“Do not worry,” said the genie. “I am the spirit of this waterfall.
Unfortunately, my powers are limited, and I cannot change what is about to happen. However, I can grant each of you one final wish.”
The American stepped forward first.
“I love my country,” he said proudly.
“Before we reach the waterfall, I want to sing our national anthem one last time—with a full orchestra, a choir, and music for everyone to join in!”
The genie nodded.
“Your wish is granted.”
Suddenly, an enormous orchestra appeared, followed by a choir and stacks of songbooks.
The Japanese man stepped forward.
“I love my country too. I would like one final feast featuring some of my favorite traditional foods. And please make enough so my friends can enjoy it with me.”
The genie smiled.
“Your wish is granted.”
A huge table appeared, covered with an incredible variety of dishes.
The Englishman watched all this happening and slowly walked toward the genie.
The genie smiled and asked, “And what is your final wish?”
The Englishman leaned closer and whispered:
“Could you send me over the waterfall right now… before the singing starts and before that enormous meal arrives?”
The genie blinked.
“Why?”
The Englishman sighed.
“Because I know my friends. I’d rather take my chances with the waterfall than spend the last few minutes listening to them sing and watching them eat!”
Sometimes, the best survival strategy is simply knowing your friends well enough to choose the waterfall.