Meanville

The village elder went out to welcome an approaching stranger. "Welcome, friend. What brings you to Meanville?"

"I come in search of a new home," said the stranger, "having left my home in desperation. My neighbors were the most terrible people you can imagine: ignorant busy bodies, constantly making false accusations."

"That is terrible," replied the elder, "My heart goes out to you but I am sure you will find the people of Meanville are much the same as the people you left behind, perhaps even worse. The very name of our village is a testament to its people. Life is difficult here but it is all I have ever known. Farewell and best wishes that you may find a place that suits you."

The next day another stranger approached the village and the elder spoke the same welcome and asked the same question.

"I come in search of a new home," said the stranger, "having left my home in desperation. My neighbors were the most wonderful people you can imagine but the famine was so terrible that I volunteered to leave so that others might stay."

"That is terrible," replied the elder. "My heart goes out to you. I'm sure you will find the people of Meanville are much the same as the people you left behind. We mean to welcome you to our village with open arms."