Ali-Gator And The Fearless Frog
On our Pacific Northwest hike last fall we experienced wildlife up close
and personal in various settings. Our
first nature hike led us to a superb ecosystem found nowhere else in the world.
On the west side of the Washington Olympic Peninsula is a vast rain
forest. Here trees tower hundreds
of feet branching off into many different directions. Spectacular moss draped trees and ferns make up this
picturesque haven with soft lights gently filtering through them. It was here among the herbs and shrubs that we stumbled
across two very unusual characters. We
sat down on a dry log and recorded their adventures.
Here is where our story begins…
Ali-Gator was not a native to the Pacific Northwest and found herself
very lost. On the other hand, the
little green frog was very familiar with the Northwest Territory and felt quite
at home. Here in the dense rain
forest these two unusual characters would travel for many days in search of
Ali's home. Both of them pressing
onward, always knowing deep inside that they will survive despite certain
obstacles along their way. Here in the green realm of forest, alligator and frog, we
come to share in a magical and lasting friendship tested by the elements of
nature.
As they set off together, the fearless frog hopped onto Ali's very large
jaws (not to mention large teeth) and spoke gently to Ali about his plans to
help her find her way home. He told
her of all the dangerous obstacles they may encounter.
She graciously accepted all his advice and thanked him for offering his
much needed help. Ali carried the
little green frog and they started off on their long journey home.
They passed over the first mountain of cold, wet, icy glaciers and over
jagged mountain peaks into the valley of misery.
Here sadness and loneliness cast it's dark shadow over the entire valley
making it seem forever to pass through it.
But they kept their positive spirits, and despite the tears they shed it
wasn't long before they made it through shivering, cold and wet.
The drifting fog was moving softly inward and they came upon a dreary and
spooky looking swamp. They clung tightly onto each other with their eyes closed and
ventured through the swamp of fear. Loud
noises filled the air and scared them but they kept their eyes closed as they
whispered; "I am not
afraid," Over and over again. Then
a warmth suddenly came over them and they opened their eyes to find themselves
in the desert of lessons. Here they
were hot, parched, tired and very thirsty.
Their tough green skins were showing signs of the heat and Ali barely
able to press on dropped to the sandy ground.
How was this little green frog going to get a big alligator back up on
her feet? He couldn't possibly
carry her and there was no one in sight to help him.
He was so worried and knew he had to come up with a plan fast to save
her. He squatted down next to Ali
and whispered gently in her ear. "We
have come so far Ali, please, please don't give up!"
"I can't help you unless you help yourself!"
"Please try and get up, we've not much further to go!"
He pulled and pulled on Ali, hopping up and down on her rather large
head. She finally came to shaking
and made it to her feet. Barely able to hold herself up, she thanked the little frog
and was able to continue.
He had given her hope again and oddly enough the very next field they
entered was the field of hopes and dreams.
Here was a stunning array of bright colors and luminescent light.
Nearby a beautiful pond and waterfall invited Ali and the little green
frog to swim in the cool refreshing water.
They needed the water to survive and were so very happy that day.
As they continued on their way, Peaceful Valley appeared with
wildflowers, fresh huckleberries, raspberries and blackberries waiting to be
picked. They decided to relax in
the valley and fell fast asleep. When they awoke they reflected on their long and tiresome
journey. They were so thankful for
each other and never took their relationship for granted.
Ali respected this little frog and the fearless frog admired her courage
and determination. Ali knew she had to press on just a little bit further.
They entered into the forest of love.
Peace and love radiated down on them and they hugged each other (as only
an alligator and frog can do.) After
all they had gone through together Ali realized she was home all along.
She smiled at the fearless frog and said; "I finally realized, Home
is where the heart is!" "My
heart is here with you little fearless green frog!" "Thank you for showing me the way!"
Copyright
1997 by Author Patti Tricoli
