3. Service

“What’s my purpose?” said the Stag.

“To win,” said the Rat.

“Who are you serving?” said the Wren.

“The herd. The forest. That’s why I lead.”

“When did you last think about them?” said the Wren.

The Stag said nothing.

“He thinks about them constantly,” said the Rat. “Every decision is for them.”

“Is it?” said the Wren.

“I hit every target this season,” said the Stag.

“Whose targets?” said the Wren.

“Mine.”

“And the herd?” said the Wren.

“They’re fine.”

“Are they thriving?” said the Wren.

The Stag paused.

“I don’t know. I haven’t asked.”

“You don’t need to ask,” said the Rat. “You need to deliver.”

“Deliver what?” said the Wren.

“Results,” said the Stag.

“For whom?” said the Wren.

“For —” The Stag stopped. “For me. To prove I’m doing it right.”

“And what did the forest need from you?” said the Wren.

“For me to help it thrive.”

“Is that what you’ve been doing?” said the Wren.

“No. I’ve been building a record.”

“What’s the difference?” said the Wren.

“One is about me. The other is bigger than me.”

Silence.

“Somewhere along the way, the scoreboard replaced the purpose,” said the Stag.

The River served.

If you recognised something in this dialogue, you're not alone.

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