The Compromise of the Hunter & the Bear

There is a Russian parable about compromise that goes like this: A hunter raised his rifle, aiming carefully at a large bear. Just as he was about to pull the trigger, the bear spoke in a calm, soothing voice, saying, “Isn’t it better to talk than to shoot? What do you want? Let’s negotiate this matter.”

Lowering his rifle, the hunter replied, “I want a fur coat.”

The bear responded, “That’s a negotiable request. I only want a full stomach. Let’s find a…