by Amy Dannenberg
Once upon a time in a pond that was chilly, there lived a fair flower whose name was Lily. Lily was as green as could be and floated freely from pond to tree. She soaked up the sunshine each day of the week and smiled at all the creatures she would see. There were goldfish and minnows that were friendly enough and Lily continued to float till she felt something tough.
"Hello there fair flower," spoke a voice. "You are so soft and green. By far, you're the most beautiful flower I've seen. Tell me your name and where do you come from?"
"My name is Lily and I come from the sun. I was born in a pond a long time ago and have been drifting around searching high and low."
"What have you been searching for, may I be so bold to ask?"
"I've been looking for something more exciting than my fellow creatures; for something with some grace and sculptured, stoic features; for something with great strength, yet as gentle as a lamb; for something that accepts me for exactly what I am. And what exactly are you and where do you come from?"
"I am a strong, yet gentle beast that has wandered far from home. I set out on a sojourn from a place that's far away. I started out on land and ended up in a bay. I have been searching for a creature who has a great amount of poise—for something that is gentle and that doesn't make much noise. I have been searching for something that is delicate and green—for something that calms my nerves and makes me feel serene."
"You must have been looking for this creature in many different places. High and low and up and down, you've traveled very far. But, still I do not know exactly what kind of creature you are. You feel hard and strong, yet fury and soft. You're like nothing I've ever seen before. But, being with you makes my heart want to know you more."
"I know what you mean. I feel the same way. I've never encountered a flower so lovely as I have on this day. I am a creature that is complex and brave. I am powerful and fast, yet I know how to behave. I can appreciate the things that are simple in life. My desires are basic and my instincts are keen and you are the most beautiful flower I have seen."
"Thank you so much for the kind, lovely words. They soften my petals and make my leaf more green and you are the most charming creature I've seen. But, what exactly do you call yourself? I am a flower named Lily and I need to know. What are you called and where do you plan to go?"
"I am a creature known as Tiger. I am a powerful hunter and a graceful provider. I usually search, travel, and roam. But, now that I've seen you, I have finally found my home. I am staying right here, if this is where you'll be. If you continue to float, I will keep you next to me. I will follow you wherever you may go. You're much too special a flower, I will always tell you so."
