When Winter Comes

 

Bambi by Felix Salten

 

 recently I've reread the classic story of Bambi

I loved reading and feeling the intense cycle of life in it's natural courses where even in the Forest the creatures dealt with such emotions as fear and pride and carelessness. Although it was beautiful walking thru the thicket of the forest I was shocked every time "the hunter" went for the kill.

 

Yet the most significant part of the book this time for me was chapter 8.  The leaves are aging and quickly falling to the ground and the air is crisp. 

 

"You never know who's going to go next said the first leaf.  "Even when it was warm and the sun shone, a storm or a cloud burst, would come sometimes, and many leaves were torn off, though they were still young.  You never know who's going to go next"  The cycle of life moves on....

"Can it be true," said the first leaf, "can it really be true, that others come to take our places when were gone and after them still others and more and more?" " It is really true" whispered the second leaf.  "We can't even begin t imagine it, it's beyond our powers." They were silent then the first leaf said "Don't worry so much about it, you're trembling" "That's nothing the second leaf answered, "I tremble at the least thing now. I don't feel so sure of my hold as I used to."

 

Oh what an incredible truth! How had I missed reality of this chapter this first time around? Because...back then my reality wasn't about holding on.  Now the season is passing and with it the vibrant youthful beauty is dimming.

"We shouldn't complain," said the first leaf gently.  "We've outlived many, many others."

"Have I changed much?" asked the second leaf shyly but determinedly.  "Not in the least," the first leaf assured her, "You only think so because I've got to be so yellow an ugly.  But it's different in your case." 

"You're fooling me," the second leaf said. "No, really," the first leaf exclaimed eagerly, "believe me, you're as lovely as the day you were born.  Here and there a little yellow spot but it's hardly noticeable and only makes you handsomer, believe me."

"Thanks," whispered the second leaf, quite touched. "I don't believe you, not altogether, but I thank you because you're so kind, you've always been so kind to me.  I'm just beginning to understand how kind you are." 

 

Oh that we could realize early enough to enjoy the blessings of life and understand quickly the joy of gratitude. 

 

"Hush," said the other leaf, and kept silent herself for she was too troubled to talk any more.  Then they were both silent.  Hours passed.  A moist wind blew, cold and hostile through the tree-tops.

"Ah, now," said the second leaf, "I..." Then her voice broke off. She was torn from her place and spun down.

     Winter had come.