transorbit

This episode presents The Tale of Al-Khamkhoum, a humorous yet meaningful folk story from Arab heritage that explores personal responsibility, the value of work, and the consequences of self-deception. Al-Khamkhoum is a young man who believes he is “trying” in life, yet all he truly knows is eating and sleeping. Despite his grandmother’s kindness and her attempts to guide him toward various trades—smithing, sewing, construction, and even working at the village well—he fails in every task due to his laziness and lack of discipline. Through lighthearted events and a revealing turning point, the story exposes the danger of relying on others, the importance of being honest with oneself, and the simple truth that effort is the foundation of growth. This episode blends humor with wisdom, delivering a timeless lesson from Arab oral tradition in a narrative style suitable for all ages.