The Owl and The Pigeon

Kikiyan and Pura (A Short Story) By Suntou Touray
As it happens, many people accuse the Owl (Kikiyan) of being a witch. These accusations puzzled and troubled the Owl so much so that,  it took matters in it's own hand to clear it's cherished and reputable good name.

The Owl is depicted as wise, a night traveller, quiet, aloof and majestic. Are those the main reasons for the blatant character assassinations? It wonders!

The Owl trust that, since it is always around the Pigeon (Pura), a friendly and approachable bird. Enquiring from the good friend as to whether the accusations people make are valid or remotely true become a pressing issue.

The Owl asked, "Mr Pigeon, people accused me of being a witch, and I know it is not true, but what do you think?"

The Pigeon looked around and retort to the Owl, "well, are you facing me or is your back toward me?" 

The Owl said, "I am facing you". The Pigeon responded with a big surprise for the Owl "Well, the people are correct you are a witch." 

The Owl couldn't understand, "I am harmless and wise, why associate me to wickedness and bloodthirsty?"

 Yet the Pigeon like other accusers base their suspicions on the strangeness of the Owl, the wide eye, creepy looks and loner mannerism. 

And so the legend continues, those accused of beings witches are usually ugly looking grandmas, who are very poor and lacking extended family support. Especially if the old granny has perturbing eyes and slight facial hair. 

Lesson: Avoid suspicions and fear base accusation without proof.

(A Mandinka folklore, don't Judge by looks. The nicest looking person can the most evil.)