23-33TheMontainSnake&theDeer |
Once upon a time, in the heart of a dense forest, a mountain lion
prowled silently through the undergrowth, its majestic presence
commanding respect. Meanwhile, a mischievous mountain snake found its
perch, hanging upside down from a hefty branch overlooking a glistening
river.
On a bright day, a young and curious deer trotted along, blissfully
unaware of the lurking snake above. Unintentionally, the deer brushed
against the snake's smooth scales, sending a shiver down both their
spines. In an instant, the snake seized the opportunity, coiling tightly
around the deer's body.
The young deer winced in pain, tears welling up in its innocent eyes.
Yet, its heart was burdened with a deeper concern. It had promised its
sick mother, who lay beyond a massive rock, that it would bring her some
delicious berries. The deer, caught in the clutches of the snake,
explained its filial duty. It proposed a deal: once the deer had
fulfilled its promise and nourished its ailing mother, the snake could
indulge in its final meal.
The snake, touched by the deer's devotion, hesitated. It voiced its
doubts, fearing that the deer might not return after fulfilling its
obligation. However, after much negotiation and deliberation, a unique
agreement was reached. The snake would remain coiled around the deer as
it embarked on its journey to the big rock, collected the berries, and
fed its beloved mother. Only then would the snake claim its feast.
With the snake still tightly wound around its body, the determined deer
ventured forth. It skillfully plucked juicy berries, one by one, filling
its heart with hope for its mother's recovery. Upon reaching the big
rock, the deer tenderly fed the berries to its weakened mother, her eyes
sparkling with gratitude.
Turning to face the snake, the deer declared that the time had come for
the snake to fulfill its part of the bargain. Yet, to everyone's
surprise, the snake's eyes welled up with tears, glistening like
diamonds in the sunlight. In a voice tinged with genuine emotion, the
snake expressed deep admiration for the deer's unwavering filial duty.
With great compassion, the snake declared, "You have shown the true
essence of love and devotion, dear deer. Your selflessness has touched
my heart. Today, I release you from your burden, for your act of
kindness has earned you a place in heaven."
In a breathtaking display of liberation, the snake uncoiled from the
deer's body, gently slithering away. The deer stood there, both relieved
and grateful, watching as the snake disappeared among the trees, its
head held high with newfound freedom.
From that day forward, the deer and the snake became symbols of an
extraordinary friendship and an enduring tale of sacrifice and
compassion. The forest whispered their story to its inhabitants, filling
their hearts with awe and inspiring acts of kindness for generations to
come. |