Turtle & Goat: The Things People Say

 

Turtle and Goat were enjoying some tea and lemon cake on a snowy winter day. Sitting there, staring out the window, Turtle could see that something was troubling Goat.  

“I have a question for you, Turtle. I’m curious to hear what you have to say.” Goat looked a little stressed as she asked.

“I don’t know that I have any answers for you,” Turtle replied, “but I will do my best and see what I can do.”

“Well, I, um,” Goat began with a sigh, “I heard some kids talking the other day, and I truly did not like what they had to say. The things they were saying were simply untrue. I thought that before I did or said anything, I needed to talk to you.”

“Oh dear, were the mean kids getting to you? I do my best to steer clear, as I know you do too!” Turtle shook his head as he spoke.

“They weren’t being nice for sure, in fact, I think they were mean, and again, the stuff they said was not true, let’s be honest, they’re quite immature!” Goat said in a very annoyed voice.

“Was it about you?” Turtle asked in a quiet voice.

“Yes, and also you, too. I think these kids are mean by choice.” Goat replied as she once again sighed. 

Taking a deep breath, Goat began to share. It was not an easy thing to do, because a good friend never wants to hurt. They love and want to protect you. 

“They said turtles are way too slow, and that’s a problem they feel. They said that goats have too much energy and that we butt our heads so much that we have no clue. They were making fun of me and you!” Goat said.

“Well, Goat, I can’t say that I’m surprised. Those kids seem to love to lie. But here’s something I can share with you, we need to just turn their words around on them, because none of it is actually true.”

Turtle continued, “I mean, some of what they say may be true in some way, but they forgot the rest, so here’s what we can say.”

“First off, yes, we turtles are slow. But that’s because we’re thoughtful. We think about where and when we want to go. We don’t run about and act like fools. We are careful and deliberate, we think before we speak and move, and we are considerate and very kindhearted, too. I know that’s a lot of big words to say we move with care and love, but learning new words is fun. The most important part is to look at us in a much better way, no matter what the mean kids say.” Turtle replied with a smile.

“And as far as goats go, as you know, you have energy to spare. But that also means you have a lot of spirit and joy! You don’t just shuffle through life; you live and enjoy. You’re full of light, and butting heads is a sign of friendship and love as well. As a friend, you always excel!” Turtle sat back and sipped more tea. He was proud of his answers and as pleased as can be. 

“Oh, Turtle, I knew you’d help me with this. You’re my bestest best friend, I need to give you a hug and a kiss!” said Goat as she jumped up and gave Turtle a huge hug.

“Words can hurt in so many ways; it’s an honest thing to say,” Turtle replied. “But we can show them with our own words that they’re wrong and what they say is a lie. Just because someone says something negative doesn’t mean it’s true. We are more than others say we are, and we know you’re a really great gal, and I’m a great guy.”

The best friends finished their cake and tea. “I’m so grateful that we agree,” said Goat. “People can sometimes say things that aren’t true. But when that happens we can’t let them get to you or me. We look at people not by what others say, but by what we see.”