06 April 2007

The Lion, The Crow, The Ant, and The Monkey (Part 1)

Rotaract, like any other organization in this world, is often populated by interesting creatures of intent and display. I'm sure you may have encountered several kinds by now.

Before you start jumping to conclusion or assumption, the purpose of my writing and sharing of this story is neither to label nor expose the many friends and acquaintances I've known in Rotaract. Like any good story should, my hope is you will find this story both educational and enjoyable to read (the sort of stuff Walt Disney's are made of).

Thus, allow me to begin.

Once upon a time, as I journeyed through the forest. . . . . I met the Lion, the Crow, the Ant, and the Monkey congregating one afternoon. With sincere curiousity, I asked of their purpose for this gathering. "We're discussing issues that are affecting this forest, and things that we can do to make this forest a better place to live in", explained the Monkey. They seemed so happy to see me and with utmost sincerity invited me to join them. I obliged.

During the discussion I observed. The Lion was most obvious trying to lead the pack, and let out a few roars when necessary. The Monkey was making a scene out of everything and everyone, including itself. The Ant was in its quiet self, listening. The Crow was somehow occupied with its own interest, picking on the ground. It was an interesting scene nevertheless. The day ended with a few topics being deliberated and a handful of suggestions offered. I was informed we would meet again 2 weeks from that day.

It was exactly 2 weeks from the last gathering. It nearly slipped my mind until the Crow flew by and reminded me about the gathering, and offered to ferry me there. The Crow and I were the first to arrive at the gathering point, then the Lion came walking in gracefully just before the tiny Ant. We waited for a few wind, but the Monkey was no where to be seen. The Lion insisted we wait for the Monkey, the Ant didn't mind, but the Crow was deeply unhappy. As for me, being a new member of this congregation, sat there quietly while letting nature takes its course. Finally, out of nowhere, appeared the Monkey. 'Better late than never' seem to be the order of the day.

We debated, negotiated, and finally confirmed, we shall make a visit to the Frog at the nearby pond to render whatever service we may to the community there. 7 days from that day we were to gather at this place before proceeding to the pond. The Crow was chosen to lead this excursion as he was the most familar and knowledgable about the pond.

The day arrived. We started our journey and reached our destination without much struggle, except the Monkey was no where to be found again. Apparently, it got lost along the way or somehow distracted. We met the Frog and expressed our purpose of the visit. The Frog thanked us and showed us the state of the pond he lives in. It was filled with waste disposed off by irresponsible creatures. The Crow suggested we help the Frog clean up the pond before sunset. The Ant quietly began to collect dead leafs floating on the pond, while the Crow targetted the foreign objects such as bottles and wrappers. The Lion seemed to find it difficult in wanting to get his paws dirty from non-hunting work, and the Monkey can't seem to decide what to do with his long arms and settled to do a few of everything.

This is the scene of fauna from different species working together for a common deed.

End of story.

What is the moral of the story?
The Crow may not be the most beautiful bird, but it's wise and willing to work.
The Lion may be mighty and full of charisma, but may not be willing to get dirty.
The Ant may be small and quiet, but works well with others and a good executionist.
The Monkey may be disoriented and playful, but it can add vibrance to an otherwise boring scene.

Do we have Lions, Crows, Ants, and Monkeys in our clubs?

To be continued. . . . .