The Parrot Who Couldn't Listen

In the heart of the Serengeti, where the golden grasses stretch as far as the eye can see and the acacia trees stand tall like ancient guardians, there lived a flamboyant parrot named Kito. Kito wasn’t just any parrot—he was the most dazzling bird in the jungle, with feathers that shimmered in every shade of the rainbow. But Kito had a problem: he loved the sound of his own voice a little too much.

Kito was a salesman, known for his ability to sell the finest fruits of the Serengeti. His pitch was as colorful as his plumage, and at first, he was the star of the jungle’s bustling marketplace. But soon, the other animals began to notice something about Kito. He never stopped talking. From dawn to dusk, he’d chatter on and on, hardly taking a breath. He would interrupt the giraffes mid-graze, out-talk the monkeys during their morning chat, and even drown out the lions’ mighty roars with his endless babble.

As time passed, Kito’s reputation began to change. His charm faded, and his clients—like the wise old elephant and the clever meerkat—started avoiding him. They were tired of Kito’s one-sided conversations, where their words were just background noise to his ceaseless chatter. But Kito, in his arrogance, didn’t see the problem. He thought everyone loved hearing him talk.

One day, Kito was given a golden opportunity. The regal lion, King of the Serengeti, requested a presentation on the finest fruits for his royal banquet. Kito, excited beyond measure, prepared his grandest speech. But during the presentation, he made a fatal mistake—he didn’t let anyone else speak. He talked over the zebra, who was trying to suggest a sweet melon, cut off the warthog, who knew where the juiciest berries grew, and completely ignored the baboon’s advice on seasonal fruits.

The lion, growing increasingly annoyed, finally roared, “Kito, enough!” The silence that followed was deafening. The lion then spoke, his voice calm but firm. “Kito, you have much to say but little to hear. In your quest to be heard, you’ve forgotten to listen. Because of this, you’ve not only failed me but also failed to respect your fellow animals.”

Kito, stunned and embarrassed, realized for the first time the impact of his behavior. He had not only lost a prestigious client but also damaged his relationships with the other animals. His colorful feathers seemed to dull as he flew away, his heart heavy.

Back at his perch, Kito thought long and hard. He knew he had to change. He sought out the wise tortoise, known for his patience and wisdom, who taught him the art of listening. Kito began practicing every day—he would listen to the wind rustling the leaves, to the birds’ songs at dawn, and most importantly, to the other animals. Slowly but surely, Kito learned to balance his gift of gab with the power of listening.

Over time, Kito regained the trust of the jungle’s inhabitants. His presentations became more collaborative, and his relationships with the other animals flourished. And while he still loved to talk, Kito had learned that the true magic of conversation lies not just in speaking but in hearing the voices of others.

That is the end of our story for today. Have you learned something?

I cannot wait to hear from you!

Well, Until then, may your days be filled with laughter, your hearts with joy, and your minds with endless wonder.

With all my warmth, it's me, your accountability partner, 

Noelah Bomani,

Author and Leadership Coach.