The Gift

I rest within the hollow embrace of a fallen tree, the most peaceful location I could find to take my rest. My sticky orange pads cling to its walls, keeping me safe from prowling predators. A low rumble vibrates through the earth, shaking my shelter and jolting me from slumber. The cries of unseen beasts echo outside, mingling with the familiar rhythm of raindrops pelting the ground. My search for serenity, interrupted once again. I open my large red eyes, scanning the hollow. Still alone. I leap from my perch and move toward the entrance, my limbs moving instinctively over the slick bark.

Just as I suspected, the drops begin to fill the earth. The last time this occurred, the ground was unable to absorb all the water, and it overflowed, creating vast pools. I myself am not the greatest swimmer, so I must find high ground. Luckily, there are plenty of tall trees nearby to shelter me. Trudging through the field of green, snacking on small crawling creatures, I search for safety. I leap to the base of the nearest tree, its bark slick with moisture. My sticky pads find purchase, and I begin to scale the trunk, searching for a limb to rest upon.

Finally, I reach a branch high enough to keep me safe from the rising water. I focus on the limb extended toward me. Steadying the pads on my feet, I release my grip on the trunk and leap. Not so gracefully, I land and cling tightly, gathering my limbs beneath me to sit properly. Thick moss and vines drape the branch, showing the relentless growth spurred by the endless rainfall. Nearly every rise of the sun is followed by dark clouds and relentless drops from the sky—perfect conditions for a creature like me.

The drops fall harder now, penetrating the leaves and collecting on the limb, making it slick and slimy. Luckily, I am well-adapted to these conditions. Perched upon my new shelter, I take in the view of my beautiful home. The dense jungle stretches out in varying shades of green, some matching the hue of my slimy skin, which helps me blend seamlessly into my surroundings. Steam rises from the earth, filling the air with its damp, earthy scent. Among the foliage, flashes of red and blue streak through the trees, likely winged creatures seeking shelter from the storm.

The jungle seems to breathe with the rain, its musk mingling with the tang of wet moss. Every drop carries life from the canopy to the roots below. Another rumble shakes the ground, and I brace for the flash of light that always follows. The winged creatures shriek at the disruption, their cries momentarily drowning out the symphony of rain. I let out a croak of my own, startled but steadying myself. The storm feels harsher than usual—the kind that floods the earth and tests our resolve.

A flash of light illuminates the jungle, briefly casting eerie clarity. On the tree trunk ahead, a figure mirrors my own shape. My chest puffs instinctively, but the silhouette disappears as quickly as it came. Perhaps my mind, longing for companionship, conjured it. Yet the thought is fleeting as another tremor ripples through the branch. A large drop cascades down my skin, soaking into me as I absorb the life-giving rain.

Another thud vibrates through the limb. Annoyed, I assume it to be one of the vexatious winged creatures. Puffing my chest, I turn—but instead of feathers, I am met with large red eyes, strikingly similar to my own. The curious creature hops toward me, mimicking my movements. Its chest puffs in response to mine, and a low trill escapes its throat. For a moment, we are locked in silent conversation, our mirrored forms stirring something unfamiliar in me.

Suddenly, a boom cracks the air, ricocheting through the trees and shaking the branch beneath us. The looming clouds pour heavier now, flooding the ground below. Pools quickly form into rushing streams. I turn to my companion, who watches the rising water with the same wariness. Another flash of light streaks across the sky, striking a tree in the distance and setting its canopy ablaze. My companion and I croak in unison, alarmed.

The creature turns, hopping along the branch and glancing back to ensure I follow. Hesitant but seeing no other option, I do. We ascend toward the rear of the tree where another branch extends to safety. The creature leaps with grace, landing firmly on the bough and disappearing into the foliage. I prepare to follow but falter, distracted by the rushing water below. When I finally jump, a sudden rumble shakes the tree, loosening my grip on the slick branch. I cling desperately, the rain weakening my hold.

Just as I begin to slip, familiar pads grasp mine, followed by several more. A chorus of croaks fills the air as I am pulled back to safety. Several creatures, each a mirror of myself, surround me. I find relief in their presence, and one—my earlier companion—lingers beside me. It croaks, beckoning me toward shelter. We move as one, navigating through branches to reach a dense cluster of foliage. Entering, I am embraced by humid warmth.

Small green forms fill the space, clinging to limbs and croaking in rhythmic unison. The symphony vibrates through the air, a living pulse of the jungle. For the first time, I feel part of something larger than myself. My companion perches nearby, turning its red eyes to me. I tilt my head in response, our unspoken connection clear. Together, we venture to the edge of the shelter, watching as the storm begins to wane. The heavy clouds part slightly, revealing fiery hues of the setting sun.

As the rain softens to a gentle patter, the jungle exhales in relief. Steam rises in wisps, carrying the scent of renewal. Creatures emerge cautiously from their hiding places. I remain perched beside my companion, surrounded by others like me. The rhythm of the rain, the steady croaks of my kin, and the calming twilight fill me with a peace I’ve never known. I had sought serenity in solitude, yet found it here, among my own.

The sun dips below the horizon, and the sky shifts to deep blue. My companion shifts its grip, settling in for the night. I mimic its movements, curling my limbs beneath me. Around us, others do the same, some huddling together for warmth. The rain continues its soothing rhythm, lulling me to rest. For the first time, I’ve discovered not only peace but belonging. Truly, this is the greatest gift of all.