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[ The feed turns on to a peaceful forest clearing. Ahead, curled up in a ball is the spider-dog creation, dozing peacefully. Soon, the unicorn that guards him steps into view, her hew bowing to peer at the snoozing creature, and then continuing on, her steps light and silent
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But, at the same time, it is like a double-edged sword. Certainly, there is joy in life, whether it is living out your own or seeing the birth of another. However, where there is day, there is night -- and there are unpleasant experiences to go hand-in-hand with every pleasant one.
[And she takes in a breath, connecting her mind with the present. There's a soft 'ah', realization distinct in its utterance. When she speaks again, warmly, one can easily tell that there's a smile on her lips.] Without getting too long-winded, there are a lot of ways to describe it, but I'm afraid it's difficult to explain in a way that's understandable on an emotional level. [An apologetic note softens her voice.]
All the more so if you've never met another of your kind. However, if you'll permit me, I'll most certainly try. So can you tell me something? Do you have others that you care for?
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It is no matter. I cannot understand the emotions of others, truly. It was curiousity which led me to inquire. Your assistance is appreciated.
[ Care for? ]
I am guardian over the creatures of the forest, and the young one I have. I am connected to my own kind, and I will see them safe as any other - but I cannot say there is any that I care for.
[ Once, what seems like far too long ago, but no more. ]
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[And it comes as a surprise to hear that there is no one the unicorn cares for -- however, it does not show when she speaks again.]
Hmm...in that case, have you ever felt sadness? If not, what of hurt, whether it be physical or mental?
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Once, though I can no longer feel these things ... yet I remember. [ A pause. ]
Why do you ask such questions?
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You said that you find enjoyment in watching the birth of the forest creatures, right? Then that joy is one way to define the good that comes with age. When you are with another of your kind, you feel happy to see that person grow and ripen like a budding flower in a field. You wonder how it will look when it finally blossoms, how the petals will look when they finally unfurl. In your anticipation, you tenderly care for it with water and sunshine. When it reaches its peak at last, there is satisfaction in knowing what it became, as well as delight in witnessing the splendor of its beauty.
But you said that you have felt pain once before. That is one way to define the misery that comes with age. When you see that flower you've kindly nurtured beginning to wither away, it hurts. You know that was bound to happen, and you know that you can plant a new one. However, you remember the memories you had, and you realize that it can't be replaced. You recall how you sheltered it from the rain, how you took care to prune its leaves, how you kept it safe from any kind of harm. Knowing you're unable to have any more memories with this particular flower is like the anguish that you once experienced, but imagine it intensified. It doesn't last forever, not unless you let it, but it is something that you never want to forget.
Then, to face your own death...well, that depends on whether or not there was more you wanted in life. If not, it can very well be like closing your eyes and going to sleep, never to awaken again.
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I see - I thank you, your response is quite enlightening. Though I can no longer feel many of the things you describe, I still remember what they mean, and when to use the appropriate emotional response. Perhaps I will find new experiences with this explanation in mind, now.
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