Why are Rhinos Grey?
Why are Rhinos Grey?, a fable by Chrigi-in-Africa, Ranger of the San Clan
A very long time ago, only the wild animals and the San (the first people of Africa) lived in the wild open spaces of Africa. It was a time when people and animals could still understand one another.
The animals had been around much longer than the people, however, and they were wiser as a result. They often had to teach the people how to survive in the wilderness, by using their special skills.
Otter had the knowledge of how to swim and catch fish, Baboon had the knowledge of which wild fruits and plants one could eat, and Rhino had the knowledge of how to make fire.
Otter and Baboon were quite happy to share their knowledge but Rhino was a grumpy and bad-tempered old fellow. He stubbornly refused to share his fire-making knowledge with the San.
Time after time the humans pleaded with Rhino, "Please teach us how to make fire, as we get cold at night and the dark night is scary." Rhino just snorted through his nose, "I do not know, go away!"
But you know, a funny thing happened every time Rhino told this lie: the mighty horn on his nose started to itch terribly!
Having no hands to scratch the tickling itch, he would rub his itchy horn against a tree, only to set the tree on fire... and every time the humans asked Rhino, the very same thing happened.
This went on for quite a very long time. Eventually, the ashes of all the burning trees stained Rhino's hide ashen grey, and stinging embers made him squint so much his eyesight became weak.
Although much time has passed since then and the San learned how to make fire on their own, today when you see a Rhino you will see his tiny eyes and his skin as grey as ashes.
(adapted, via Gateway Africa)