However, reading again the chapter linked to it, I have been realising that the story contains a subtle and pedagogical irony towards Brother Leo.
Now in the Italian version (still readable) his name is Lione (Lion). This poor fellow in a winter day hurries to their monastery (I don't remember if there is a monastery close to the Church, nowadays), having to bear the placid contemplative pace of Saint Francis.
Furthermore, Francis insists in calling him 'little lamb', he who bears the name of a the strongest (and proudest) animal known in nature.
I don't really think it is a childish story, it's sharp and put those who want to follow Jesus in front of the bitter truth that Love manifests.
What does it say to me today? Well, Love is the most painful experience you can undergo, but it is worth every single drop of your life.
