A story about the benefits of an open mind
Melvin Marsh Wren argued against new ideas until his friends found great success by embracing a satisfying new adventure while he just went hungry
Bonnie and Benny, Blue Herons, liked to explore new things and places. They recently heard about how cattail plants were growing in Mellow Marsh. They decided to invite their friends, Molly and Melvin—both Marsh Wrens—to accompany them to the Marsh.
Molly squealed, “I’d love to go, especially when cattails are in bloom!”
Melvin looked suspiciously at his friends. “It’s great right here at Paradise Pond. Why go all the way over to the Marsh? We’ve got plenty of mosquitos to eat in our own backyard.”
“It’ll be fun and I want to enjoy the weather and chat along the way. I’m sure we’ll find something to eat at the Marsh,” explained Molly encouragingly.
“I agree,” Benny replied. “Who knows what we’ll find on such an adventure?”
Molly said, “Come on, Melvin. It’ll be fantastic!”
Melvin harrumphed. “No thanks, I’m staying here where the water’s nice and lunch is nearby.” Bonnie, Benny, and Molly headed for Mellow Marsh. Upon arrival, they couldn’t believe their eyes! The mosquitoes swarmed everywhere and marsh grasses clumped perfectly for perching. They stuffed themselves and then perched to watch the world go by. They made several new friends, too. It was heavenly!
When they got home, Melvin asked, “What took so long?”
“Oh, Melvin, Mellow Marsh was wonderful!” Molly gasped. “We ate and watched the Marsh activity and then we ate again. Millions of tender mosquitos surrounded us! We made new friends, too!”
Melvin sighed. “I only caught 3 mosquitoes the whole time! I’m going on the next adventure,” Melvin said as his stomach growled.
Reflection
Melvin the Marsh Wren wasn’t open to new places and things. He wasn’t interested in visiting Mellow Marsh. But his friends, Bonnie and Bennie, the Blue Herons, loved to explore. Melvin’s friend, Molly the Marsh Wren was excited to experience an adventure to Mellow Marsh.
Bonnie, Benny, and Molly delighted in the unknown possibilities of a trip to the Marsh. They were open-minded and looked forward excitedly to the prospects the Marsh might offer. As expected, they found an adventure that lived up to its possibilities.
Even when his friends encouraged him, Melvin refused to accompany them. Melvin believed that what he had at home was better than what he would find at Mellow Marsh. He thought it was a hassle to travel to the Marsh. Melvin’s mind was closed to new adventures.
Melvin was quite disappointed when he heard Molly’s stories of plentiful food at the Marsh. He saw their full bellies and heard interesting tales about their adventure.
Maybe you’re like Melvin and aren’t comfortable with new situations. You may typically choose not to venture out of your comfort zone. However, such a closed mind drastically limits your possibilities!
Perhaps you’re more like Molly, and easily embrace the opportunities in life that come along. You have an open mind. And because you’re willing to try new things, you find that your life is thriving. When your mind is open to novel experiences, you’re more likely to enjoy a thriving, fascinating life full of adventure!
Self-Reflection Questions:
Do you have an open mind?
How do you feel when a new opportunity comes along?
What more can you do to take full advantage of all that life offers?