What obstacles were identified in the prologue.

This prologue introduces several elements which will come into play later in the narrative. First, the reader can see the attribution of human traits to inanimate objects - in this case, the lake that cries. This both sets the magical tone of the narrative and highlights the interrelation of all things, animate and inanimate, that forms one of the main themes of the book. Second, the story of the Narcissus highlights the question of selfishness, a question which is at the center of The Alchemist. Is it possible to pursue one's own personal desires while living a good life? In the case of Santiago, the answer is a resounding yes - making the image of Narcissus (who become a flower through his selfishness) especially apt.

So in terms of your own experience, has there been a time when you really wanted something for your personal gain without sacrificing, in any way, your integrity or causing harm to others? There probably has been.