In Need

The bear, the wolf, and the wild boar walked together listing all of their friends. They were bragging about who had the most friends. The bear listed the bison, the antelope, and the bighorn sheep. The bear explained all the great qualities that his friends had, and he mentioned the great things he was able to do for his friends.

Not to be outdone, the wolf began listing his friends. His friends included the moose, the deer, and the coyote. The wolf explained the differences between his friends and those of the bear. The wild boar said nothing.

The wolf asked, “Boar, have you no friends?”

The boar did not respond, and the three continued on their walk in the forest. Around the bend, they saw a raccoon that was stuck in a bush. The raccoon was crying and looked like he was in need of help.

The boar asked the bear and the wolf, “Do you know this animal? Is he your friend?”

“No!” the two responded indignantly. “Do you know him, Boar?”

“I do not know him, but he is a friend of mine,” replied the boar.

The bear and the wolf looked at him questioningly.

As they approached the raccoon, the boar helped him get free. He dried the raccoon’s tears and sent him on his way.

The raccoon responded by saying, “Oh, thank you, Mr. Boar. You are the best friend I have ever had!”