A Home Among the Reeds

Once upon a time there were two squirrels who decided to build new nests. One squirrel found a place in a big oak tree and decided he would live there forever. The other squirrel decided there was little competition for spaces among the tops of the reeds, and decided he would live there for awhile until better places could be found in the traditional spots.

"Don't build there!" said the other squirrels of the village. "You're just asking for trouble" they said. But the second squirrel just ignored their advice and smiled.

Both houses were built and the first squirrel was very comfortable in his new home. It wasn't exactly where he wanted it, wasn't quite big enough or in the right style, but he was willing to wait for a better home which would surely come eventually. At least all his friends approved, and he had his family around him to help.

The second squirrel was very comfortable on the first night. Sure, the nest swayed a bit as the wind gently blew through the cattails, but it was windy in the oak tree as well, right? However, the next night the wind was stronger and the second squirrel had to stay up all night fixing the twigs that kept coming out of place. Finally on the third night, a howling gale decimated his nest and he had to go running to his friends.

Everyone in the village laughed and laughed. "We told you so!"

But the first squirrel just thought to himself "At least he gave it a go. I wish I'd been brave enough!"