THE WELL OF ENDLESS HOPE- BY DOUGLAS

Once upon a time, in the heart of the forest, there lived two unlikely friends: Hare and Tortoise. Hare was known for his boundless energy, while Tortoise was wise but slow-moving.

One day, a terrible drought struck the forest. The once-lush greenery turned brown, and the animals suffered. Food became scarce, and despair settled over the creatures. Hare, who usually raced around, now sat dejectedly under a withered tree.

Tortoise, noticing Hare's sadness, approached him. "My friend," he said, "we mustn't lose hope. Even in the darkest times, there's a way forward."

"But how?" Hare replied, his ears drooping. "The rivers have dried up, and the sun scorches everything."

Tortoise thought for a moment. "Listen carefully," he said. "Beyond the hills lies a legendary well—the 

Well of Endless Hope. They say its waters can revive even the most desolate land."

Hare's eyes widened. "But it's so far away! And I'm fast, but not that fast."

Tortoise smiled. "That's where our strengths come into play. You'll run ahead, and I'll follow at my own pace. Together, we'll reach the well."

And so, Hare set off, his legs a blur as he raced across the barren landscape. Tortoise plodded behind, steady and determined. Along the way, they encountered challenges: thorny bushes, steep cliffs, and scorching sands. But they pressed on, each playing their part.

Days turned into weeks. Hare grew tired, but he remembered Tortoise's unwavering spirit. "I can't give up," he thought. "Tortoise believes in me."

Finally, they reached the hill overlooking the Well of Endless Hope. Hare collapsed, panting, while Tortoise arrived, his shell dusty but intact.

The well shimmered—a deep pool of crystal-clear water. Hare dipped his paw, and the water sparkled like diamonds. "Is this real?" he wondered.

Tortoise nodded. "Drink, my friend. Let hope flow through you."

Hare drank, and a surge of energy filled him. His legs felt lighter, and his heart lifted. "Thank you," he said to Tortoise. "You kept me going."

Tortoise smiled. "And you reminded me that speed isn't everything. Hope and determination matter more."

Together, they returned to the forest. Hare shared the well's water with every creature, and soon, life returned. The trees sprouted new leaves, and the rivers flowed once more.

From then on, Hare and Tortoise were inseparable. They taught the other animals about hope, resilience, and the power of working together. Whenever someone felt defeated, they'd say, "Remember the Well of Endless Hope."

And so, dear friend, when you feel lost or hopeless, think of Hare and Tortoise. Remember that even in the darkest times, there's a well of hope waiting for you.

CHIGBO DOUGLAS

- Nigeria