Allegiance: A Lesson from the Wild

Dear friends, today I’d like to share a tale from my younger days, a story that taught me the true meaning of allegiance. This is a tale from the heart of Africa, from a time when I was a young man on a safari adventure.

The Call of the Wild

It was the summer of ’72, and I found myself in the vast savannahs of Kenya, surrounded by the raw beauty of nature. The golden grasslands stretched out as far as the eye could see, dotted with acacia trees and teeming with wildlife. It was a sight to behold, but it was also a place where survival was a daily battle.

The Pride of the Savannah

One day, while observing a pride of lions, I witnessed an event that would forever change my understanding of allegiance. The pride was led by a majestic male, his mane like a crown of golden fire. He was the king, and the rest of the pride, his loyal subjects.

The Test of Allegiance

Out of nowhere, a rival male appeared, challenging the king for his throne. A fierce battle ensued, the air filled with roars and dust. But the king was old, and the challenger was in his prime. The king lost, and the challenger took over the pride.

But here’s where the lesson of allegiance comes in. The ousted king, injured and defeated, was left alone. But not for long. A young lioness from the pride, defying the new king, went to the old king. She stayed by his side, tending to his wounds, sharing her kills with him. She had pledged her allegiance to him, and she stayed true to it, even in the face of danger.

The Lesson Learned

That day, I learned that allegiance isn’t about power or convenience. It’s about loyalty, about standing by those you’ve pledged your support to, even when the odds are against you. It’s a lesson I’ve carried with me throughout my life, and I hope it resonates with you as well.

Remember, my friends, in the grand safari of life, it’s not the strength of the lion, but the loyalty of the pride that truly matters.

Until next time,

Kev