The grass looks greener on the other side

Ranjan and Sumer were friends. They went to the same school and were in the same class. Ranjan was not robust. He was frail and weak. Not for him the rumble and tumble of street brawls, the fun of running wild, playing football or hockey or other strenuous games with boys of his age. All that he did was watch Sumer and other boys play. Often he would go with them to the wide open grounds. They would run off to play. He would sit in the shade of a tree, lean back on a bole and read a story book or enjoy a magazine for children. Books became his best friends. He acquired knowledge. That stood him in good stead. He always stood first in the class. Sumer was tall and athletic. He spent most of his time running or swimming or riding bicycles or playing. He excelled in every game. The headmaster selected him as a member of the school's football team and cricket team. He served his school with distinction. Later he became the captain of the cricket team. The State selectors watched his performance. They felt he would one day make it big in the game. One day, the two friends went for a walk. Rajan got tired soon. He said', "I have no strength. What is the use of all this knowledge, if I am not healthy. I would give away all my knowledge if only I could be half as healthy and strong as you." Sumer was taken aback. He replied, "So you are not happy with your lot. Here I am, wishing I could do as well as you in studies. I too had often thought I could forgo my sporting skill if only I could get a first division, in the board examination." The friends peered at each other. Then they fell into each other's arms, while Ranjan said, "the grass looks greener on the other side." Sumer enquired, "What does that mean?" Ranjan explained, "Nobody is happy with his skills and talents. Each one finds his betters in others and feels unhappy. Look at yonder lawn. Does it not look greener than the one right under our feet?" Ranjan agreed.

Meaning: Almost everyone thinks others are better off than them. Rarely does one find a truly con- tented man.

Alternative: Object of envy: the Jones next door.