Many years ago, a boy named Simon lived in a small African village with his family. His father was strict but wise, and his mother was kind to everyone. Simon's older brother was loud and strong, loved for his athletic skills, but Simon was quiet, gentle, and shy.

While his brother played with the other boys, Simon spent most of his time with his mother. He felt different from the other boys in the village, who were more confident and outgoing.

In their village, boys had to prove their bravery when they turned 13. They had to hunt and catch a springbok, a fast antelope, all by themselves. Simon's older brother often teased him, saying he was too weak.

When Simon turned 13, his father told him it was time to go on the hunt. Simon felt nervous, unsure if he could catch a springbok like the other boys had done before him.

On the day of the hunt, Simon was given a bow, arrow, knife, and water. The other boys rushed ahead, eager to prove their bravery, but Simon hesitated, frozen by fear and doubt.

Simon slowly entered the forest. Along the way, he met boys who had already caught their springboks. They teased him, making Simon feel even more anxious and uncertain about his abilities.

As the sun set, Simon still had not found anything. He felt scared and lost in the forest. Just then, he heard a noise behind him, and before he could react, a leopard jumped at him!

Scared, Simon grabbed the leopard's head to protect himself from its claws. Shaking with fear, he used his knife and bravely fought the leopard until it stopped moving. Simon had won the battle. He took the leopard back home with him.

Though Simon did not catch a springbok, he had done something much braver. With great effort, he carried the leopard back to the village. Everyone, including his family and brother, was amazed.

From that day, Simon was no longer seen as weak. He became known as the bravest and strongest boy in the village. His story of courage was told for many years, showing that true bravery comes from within.