One night an owl sat upon a fence post, looking out over a moonlit field. Turning towards a rustle in the grass, its eyes fixed on a spot of ground as a rat appeared. Seeing the owl, the rat froze fast with fright.
“Don’t worry rat, my belly is full and I’m not hungry just now," hooted the owl. “I’ve had my fill of mice and a toad who should have been in bed, but made a fine meal instead.” Gazing at the rat while stretching its neck around the large bird inquired, “I’m wondering though what you have eaten this eve?”
The rat, shuddered and then said rather boldly, “I’ve helped myself to the farmer’s grain and I feel very full too, thank you!” He continued, bragging, “If I were to eat all night the farmer wouldn’t notice my nibbling. He works hard all day long, yet doesn’t miss what I eat. I think he is rather thick headed. Over the years, I can eat as much wheat with my yellow teeth, as it takes to make many loaves of bread.”
“Really?" responded the owl, “I would think a smart creature as yourself would respect the farmer, and be thankful to him for providing you with your food.”
“Yes," said the rodent, who had started cleaning crumbs furiously from his dirty face. Still he is quite stupid for letting me eat what is rightfully his. You would think he’d take better care of his future, and more importantly, that of his family.”
Winking wide eyes, the owl thought aloud, “For indeed_ someone wise cannot forget about their family!” With a swift spread of wings, it dove down quickly catching the stupid squeaking rat, and flew home.
No comments:
Post a Comment