As Toby Tortoise ambled along merrily, other animals rushed past, too busy to stop and chat or admire the scenery. Toby was slow by nature and choice, believing, “Slow and steady wins the race.”
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It was a sunny spring day, Toby’s favourite season. He loved seeing flowers bloom, baby animals being born, birds returning, and leaves reappearing. The smell of fresh-cut grass and the sight of butterflies filled him with joy.
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While enjoying the warmth of the sun on his shell, Seth Squirrel scampered by, looking flustered.
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“What’s wrong?” Toby asked.
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“I’ve worked so hard building a kingdom any squirrel would dream of, but I’m not happy,” Seth admitted.
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Toby considered this, then asked, “What’s your fondest memory?”
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Seth replied, “When I found a stash of nuts. It felt like I’d won the lottery.”
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“And what did you do with them?” Toby asked.
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“Added them to my collection, of course,” Seth grinned.
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Each of Seth’s happy moments was about collecting. Though admiring his work ethic, Toby understood why Seth felt unfulfilled.
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Toby thought and then said, “I’d like to spend a day doing things your way. Then you can spend one doing things my way.” Seth agreed.
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The next morning, they met at the old oak tree. Seth rushed around gathering nuts while Toby observed, struggling to keep up. Seth moved quickly, and others gave way to avoid him. When a young rabbit asked for directions, Seth snapped, “Ask someone else.”
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They passed young squirrels fighting over one acorn as their tired mother watched helplessly. Toby wanted to stop, but Seth had already darted off.
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By the end of the day, Toby was exhausted. He didn’t enjoy his usual sunset or reflect. He simply went to bed, feeling glum.
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The next morning, Seth woke Toby early.
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“Let’s go,” he chirped.
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“We’ve already begun,” Toby said, stretching.
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Seth joined him and found the stretches oddly enjoyable. They packed a blanket, water, and snacks, and began their slow walk. Though tempted to rush, Seth kept to Toby’s pace.
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Toby then asked for a moment of silence and said, “Listen.” As the birds sang Toby’s favourite song, Seth closed his eyes and smiled.
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They then watched a newborn deer wobbling on its legs and laughed with joy as it stood. Seth wiped a tear and sniffled, “That was the most beautiful thing I’ve ever seen.”
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They admired flowers, picking their favourite colours and scents, tasted sweet berries, and listened to forest sounds. They greeted every passer-by, gave directions, and chatted with lonely animals. They asked questions and listened to life stories, giving everyone respect and attention. As they spread joy, the size of his treehouse and nut collection no longer seemed so important to Seth.
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Heading home, they saw the mother squirrel and her hungry babies.
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“I’m sorry, Toby,” Seth said. “I need to do something.”
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He dashed off. Toby chatted with the mother and gave her babies rides on his shell. Soon, Seth returned dragging a heavy load. Then something amazing happened. Animals they had met earlier came to help.
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They all gathered around the squirrel family.
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“Please,” Seth said, “I’d like you to have these.”
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He tipped over his bag, revealing a mountain of nuts. The baby squirrels feasted while their mother gave Seth a hug that made him blush. The crowd cheered and Seth invited everyone to a party at his treehouse.
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As the party ended, he couldn’t send the squirrel family away and invited them to stay. They gratefully accepted.
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Seth still worked hard, collecting supplies and expanding his home, but now he used it to house and feed animals in need. He and Toby remained best friends, always ending their day with a quiet stroll to enjoy the world and reflect on its beauty.
