The Great Owl sat perched high atop the tallest fir tree, his eyes shifting to and fro, seeing all who dwelt below. He alone was appointed to govern the affairs of the many creatures which inhabited his field of perception. It was feeding time and the numerous birds of the land busily gathered their food while the warming, crimson sun edged up over the horizon. Two robins drew particularly close together.
"Look at those delicious worms glistening in the sunlight" said mother Robin. "Let's get a few more. They are so delicious and our hatchlings are still hungry. Nobody will see how many we took."
Father Robin was quick to rebuke her. "The Great Owl has decreed that we are allowed only four worms per day in order that there be plenty for the others. You know it has been this way from the beginning."
"That's nonsense." said his eldest. "This decree is unfair to us. Four worms are not enough. Besides, our generation is smarter and bigger than the previous. We deserve more. We need more. The Decree must be changed."
"No, we will not disrupt the status quo. I won't allow it. Not within my family." Father commanded.
But soon this ideology became more prevalent amongst the community. There was disorder in the forest. The delicate balance designed from the beginning had been disturbed. It began with a few disobedient creatures with seemingly noble intentions whose actions went unchecked. Divisions sprung up and like weeds among flowers, chocking the life and tranquility from this diverse community.
Many Robins held unswervingly to the old ways of the Great Owl, however a minority of Robins came forward and presented themselves before the community. "We are quite displeased with your ignorance in this matter. We have grown great in number and have decided that our allegiance is no longer with you." said their self appointed leader.
The Great Owl listened and grew weary but did not interfere. Those whose allegiance was with the Great Owl responded. "We would be open to sharing any new ideas you have so long as they do not violate the Decree. Our ancestors of long ago prevailed because they refused to exchange the wisdom of the Great Owl for their own."
A response was quickly forthcoming. "Unacceptable. With each passing generation, our multitudes grow larger. We grow tired of your outdated ways. Before long even the Great Owl will be struck down from his perch."
Suddenly a great noise echoed in the distance. The great Gathering Tree had fallen. And so it had begun. A new threat was upon them. An impending devastation for which they were woefully unprepared. Caught up in meaningless controversies, divisions and personal agendas, they had let their peripheral defenses collapse leaving themselves open to attack.
The reaping machines were upon them. It was too late.
Unlike previous generations, their senses had become dulled and their reasoning subjective. Presently they were quite unable to see their own forest for the trees.
Jim
But avoid foolish controversies, genealogies, dissensions, and quarrels about the law, for they are unprofitable and worthless. Titus 3:9
(Originally written Fall 2016 as a fun little writing exercise.)