SEC-S30W4: Building a Fable | The title of your fable.

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In a silent wood along a turning brook lived a boastful Peacock, and a patient Tortoise.

Everyone was in love with the Peacock. He would open his gleaming feathers each morning, and spin about in slow circles, letting the sunlight play upon his colour. "Look at me," he would call. None of these are as beautiful or graceful as I am in this forest.

The old Tortoise, who dwelt by the roots of a big tree, would merely look on. He would go slowly, talk softly, and in the day time would do what they could give him, clear little passages, carry fallen fruit back to starving animals, and get lost things brought home.

This time of year had one dry season when the stream started diminishing. Water was in short supply and the animals became concerned. An assembly was convened to seek a solution. The Peacock swaggered on.

I will fly through the woods, I will find another source of water, he said. It is plain that I am the only one suited to an important job like that.

The creatures mumbled in assent, being moved by his loveliness and self-possessedness. The Tortoise very meekly remarked, "Velocity and loveliness are useful, but patience and observation can be the more useful at this moment.

The Peacock scoffed. "Stay by your tree, slow one. Leave this to me."

He flew high and far but he was easily distracted. He loved to see himself in far ponds, to show off his plumage to newcomers, and to preen frequently. Time went by and he came back telling us all about his own grace.

In the meantime the Tortoise set out on his own expedition. He walked slowly up the drying stream, and examined the ground. He observed wet soil under some of the rocks and the path small insects were following. By and by, he followed the signs.

After several days he found a secret spring, buried under a grove of bushes. It was not large, yet continuous,--just sufficient to support the forest were it distributed well.

The Tortoise came back and conducted the animals to the spring. They shouted their relief and thankfulness. The Peacock himself lowered his feathers.

I believed I was the most able, said the Peacock. But I allow my ego to lead me rather than the job.

The Tortoise smiled kindly. "We all have strengths. But when we make purpose use of them they only assist.

Henceforth the Peacock continued to show his plumes--but he listened with greater attention. And the forest knew that not the most visible is always the true value.

Lesson: Vanity and looks can get you noticed but time and intention will make you a success.

Thanks for reading my post I'm inviting @chant, @bela90 and @okere-blessing to participate.