THE BIRD OF LIFE

Inspired by Folklore of Kafa, Ethiopia Artist, Dyani  58” x 42” Woven Cotton  

Long ago, there lived a bird unlike any other. Her feathers were more beautiful than anyone had ever seen, and people traveled from distant places simply to catch a glimpse of her. Yet the bird was lonely.

Those who saw her were afraid to come near, so they watched from a distance and invented excuses whenever she called to them. But whenever someone told a lie in her presence, one of her beautiful feathers became dull and lifeless. The bird believed there was only one thing that could restore her beauty: the truth. One day, a hunter caught her and held her gently in his hands. “Please let me live,” said the bird. “In return, I will give you three words of wisdom. But they will be useful only if you truly follow them.” The hunter agreed. “First,” said the bird, “If you have something of value, do not give it away carelessly.” The hunter smiled. “That is simple enough. What is the second?”  “When the truth is lost, it cannot be recovered by pretending it was never lost.” “I am an honest man,” the hunter replied proudly. “Tell me the third.” “I will tell you only after you release me.” The hunter opened his hands, and the bird flew to a high branch. “Now,” she called, “your third lesson is this: Do not regret a good deed once you have done it.” The hunter frowned. “You have made me foolish! I had you safely in my hands, and I let you go.” The bird looked down at him. “You have already forgotten the first lesson. You had something precious, yet you gave it away without understanding its value. And now you regret your kindness. Perhaps you were not as truthful and wise as you believed.” The hunter walked away disappointed, while the bird watched from the branch. One of her feathers had changed. Still, she remained hopeful. For she believed that somewhere in the world there was a person who would listen carefully, speak truthfully, and understand that wisdom is worth more than possession.

Moral of the Story:
True wisdom is not simply hearing good advice—it is living by it. Treasure what you have, speak the truth, and do not regret an act of kindness.