Can't anyone help me?
cried the god in desperation.

A nearby willow tree heard the god.

Quickly, said the willow,
tear off one of my branches
and rub the sap that runs from me over your eyelid.

The god did as the willow said and soon the sty was gone.

How can I thank you? asked the god.

Can you make my branch grow again?
asked the willow.

No, said the god,
I cannot.

Can you dull my pain?
asked the willow.

No, said the god,
I cannot do that either.

Can you protect me from frost, or Fall winds,
asked the willow,
or the blights of Spring and Summer?

No, said the god,
I can do none of those things.

Then I thank you for the knowledge of pain you have given me,
said the willow.

The god nodded and walked off along the horizon,
leaving the willow tree weeping.