In a forest where many rushed, chased, and shouted to be heard, there was one who moved with quiet purpose. He did not lead with force, nor follow out of fear. He listened. He watched. He waited.

When storms came, he helped others find shelter.  When food was scarce, he shared.  When the herd lost its way, he walked ahead not to be seen but so others could see.

 

The forest called him Odocoileus, not because he was the strongest or the fastest but because he gave more than he took, stayed humble in abundance, and offered wisdom when it was needed most. To become an Odocoileus is not to run ahead alone, but to guide with grace, give with heart, and grow together.

 

Because in this herd, the ones who thrive are the ones who help others rise.