It all began high up in the leafy canopy of Connemara's Cloosh Valley where Égbé, a Peregrine falcon lived. Her nest was a twiggy fortress on the tallest oak, overlooking the kingdom below. With her were her two chicks, Otti and Oza, a pair of feathered bundles of energy with appetites that could rival a dragon. Égbé spent her days soaring through the skies, hunting for food. But even a champion hunter could be brought to her knees by picky kids. Otti and Oza were extraordinary snobs. To them, shrews were "unpalatable," dung beetles were "disgusting," and fish had to be just right. Égbé would return home, talons laden with prey, only to be met with a chorus of complaints.
One day, Égbé had enough. She announced that whatever she brought back would be the only meal. If they didn't like it, too bad! Égbé found a tiny fish and brought it home. To her surprise, the chicks gobbled it up. Maybe, she thought, they were finally learning a lesson. But the chicks' appetites grew, and their demands became even more ridiculous. They wanted the most succulent insects, the freshest fish, the tastiest frogs, and the plumpest birds. Égbé was exhausted but kept providing.
Égbé was a skilled hunter, but she was powerless to satisfy her children's insatiable appetites. It was a humbling realisation. Despite her frustrations, she remained determined to provide for her offspring. She knew her kids were still little and their preferences would change over time. As the day ended, Égbé came back home. She was tired, but she felt determined. She knew her kids were relying on her, and she wouldn't disappoint them. As the adventures in Cloosh Valley drew to a close, it was time to reflect on the journey and the valuable lessons learned along the way. The lush woodlands had been a backdrop for many trials, triumphs, and tender moments, each contributing to the growth and understanding of Égbé and her chicks.
The quiet duck observed events with a calm demeanour, understanding that patience and observation often lead to better outcomes. In contrast, the noisy chicken reacted to every situation with alarm, demonstrating that constant drama can be a sign of weakness and unnecessary stress.
Calm observation is a strength, while noisy drama often leads to confusion and poor decisions.
Égbé, the devoted mother falcon, faced numerous challenges and dangers to provide for her chicks. From hunting tirelessly to enduring harsh weather, her dedication never wavered. She taught her chicks the importance of perseverance, patience, and resourcefulness, even when the odds were against her.
Lesson: Parents make countless sacrifices for the welfare of their children, often facing life-threatening situations to ensure their young ones are safe and well-fed.
Appreciation for Parents: Otti and Oza learned to appreciate their mother's efforts and the challenges she faced daily. They realised that her love and dedication were the driving forces behind her relentless pursuit of food, happiness, and safety for them.
Lesson: Children should appreciate everything their parents do for them, recognising the hard work and sacrifices made out of love and care.
Avoiding Snobbery: The chicks initially displayed picky and snobbish behaviour, rejecting the food their mother brought. Over time, they learned to be more grateful and less demanding.
Being snobbish and ungrateful can lead to unnecessary hardships. It's important to be appreciative and considerate of others' efforts.
And so, the story of Égbé and her chicks came to a close, leaving behind a legacy of love, sacrifice, and the enduring bond between a mother and her children. The lessons learned in Cloosh Valley would stay with them forever, guiding them through the trials and triumphs of life.
Ahuruonye, Dandy: - "
Dandy Ahuruonye is a professional writer who has published material that delves into such wider spheres as current affairs and social issue commentaries. In recent years, he has written articles, lectures, technical materials, short stories, books, and critiques. Many of these are published on various platforms and are accessible to the general public.
Ahuruonye was born in Aba, Nigeria, and has spent much of his adult life in Europe. His father was Friday Enwereji Ahuruonye; one of the many children of a tribal ruler - Chief Ahuruonye Ikpefu. His mother was Madam Joy Chinagorom Ahuruonye.
He started his education at Umuikaa Central primary School soon after the Biafran war, and later moved to Mkpuka Community primary School. After his primary school education, attended St Ephraim Secondary School Owerrinta. Ahuruonye subsequently completed his studies at Dublin Institute of Technology, Ireland. He holds a Diploma in Fashion Designing, and a University Certificate in Medical Records from DIT (HMI).
Dandy has published several books including a technical work on fashion and designing: "The Shoemaker - Principles and Guide for Professionals." He has also published a host of children's books including: 'Illustrated Children's Stories;' 'Groccoli;' 'Waka;' 'The Good and Ugly Weather Friends;' 'The Eel and Phil in Kill;' 'The Grass Fart in Donegal Bay, ' amongst others.
This Encyclopaedia: THE WHISPERING POET: An Anthology Of Igbo & Other Proverbs is his latest masterpiece.
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