An Insightful Banter

Once upon a Spring morning, the old Oak was savouring the pleasant weather when he heard a rustle. He swung to identify the source of the sound and noticed two of his offspring lying idle under his shade.

“Hello there! How did you land here?” Oak asked curiously.

“That boy in a green shirt left us here,” replied Pency.

Oak spotted the lad. He was playing with his friends by the brook. “Well, thanks to him, I got the chance to meet my evolved versions for the first time.”

“Yes! We wouldn’t have met our forefather otherwise.” Papiér remarked excitedly.

“Alright then. Enjoy some leisure time under my shade till your owner returns.” With that, the majestic Oak bestowed his blessings by shedding a few leaves on Pency and Papiér.

“Can I ask you something?” Pency hesitated. “Only if you don’t mind.”

“Go on! Feel free to ask me anything.” Oak replied like a sensible elder.

“Don’t you wish to be more than just a tree?” Asked Pency. “Look at me. I’m arty and useful and come in handy for creative assignments. People love and appreciate my beauty and service. Don’t you wanna change and be of more use to the world?”

The wise old Oak listened quietly and didn’t retort.

“You’re right, Pency! Transformation will open doors. Like me, you’ll be used for numerous chores,” added Papiér. “You’ll get to carry creative artworks and innovative thoughts. It’s a bit tickly, but you’ll relish the appreciation when artists reshape you to create intricate designs. The journey is like a rollercoaster ride, but it’s better than staying stuck in an old state. Don’t you think so?”

Their naive words couldn’t stir the Oak’s might. Rather, he playfully dropped a handful of leaves as if he was giggling like an amused grandpa.

Then, after a brief pause, he retorted calmly, “I’m happy to hear that both of you are content with your current state. It is indeed a matter of pride and joy to be useful in numerous ways. But kids, I’m the Earth’s lifeline. I play a significant role in keeping the atmosphere balanced, and can’t retire from my responsibility.”

“You can still give back after you evolve. As they say, ‘The end is just another beginning.’ So, you’ll fall only to start with a new identity. It’s an opportunity for rebirth. A chance to be the reason for someone’s happiness, and feel valued before you wilt forever.” Pency tried to justify her beliefs.

Papiér fluttered gently to support Pency’s opinion.

“I agree with you, but I’m happy the way I am.” Oak affirmed. “And if all of us start thinking like you, then there won’t be any human left to invent anything. Forget about the rest. So I’d rather branch out and keep re-growing year after year than lose my identity to human ingenuity only to wither before time.”

Before they could discuss further, the boy returned for his belongings.

Is it the beginning of their end, or…?

Who knows?
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Moumita Dutta

Moumita, is a service sector professional and a Glossophile who dedicates her leisure time in learning foreign languages. She writes to learn, to convey and to hear her own thoughts speak. For her, a blank page is both a mirror and a stage. She says, “Writing is my favourite expression. It’s my way to capture my wandering thoughts that help me write some sweet nothings.I keep the known alive and give life to the unknown, through my writings.”