Emilio and Verde

 Emilio had always believed in freedom. It was why his beloved parrot, Verde, was never caged. Every morning, Verde would perch on the windowsill, greeting the sun with a burst of cheerful squawks before soaring over the village. The villagers often marveled at Emilio’s trust. “A bird that isn’t caged will never return,” they warned. Emilio only smiled.

During August, a terrible storm swept through the village. Trees were uprooted, and homes were damaged. When the winds finally calmed, Emilio called for Verde. But the parrot did not return. Days passed, and the usual melody that filled Emilio’s home was replaced by silence.

Despite his sadness, Emilio chose gratitude. He thanked the universe for the joy Verde had brought into his life. He found comfort in the memory of the bird’s laughter, the way its feathers shimmered in the sunlight. Though his heart ached, he refused to let sorrow turn into bitterness.

Then, one golden morning, just as Emilio poured his coffee, a familiar flutter of wings stirred the air. Verde landed gracefully on his shoulder, but he wasn’t alone. Behind him, three smaller parrots followed, their feathers just as brilliant.

Emilio chuckled as Verde nuzzled his cheek. "So, you found a family," he whispered.

From that day on, Verde and his newfound flock continued to roam, but they always returned. Emilio had given his bird freedom, and in return, the universe had given him more than he ever expected.