The Last Flight of Old Feather

A gentle farewell to a wise old wing—where kindness echoes and lifting others lets us soar

By Ross Boulton (c)2025

Deep in the Whispering Woods at dawn,

Where stripes of sunlight shimmered on,

An owl called Old Feather kept watch high—

His gentle wisdom touched earth and sky.

He taught shy sparrows the art of flight,

Led thirsty turtles to ponds at night,

He bent to hear every ant’s small plea,

And answered each with warm dignity.

One pale-pink morning the forest knew:

His perch stood empty, brushed by dew.

Old Feather glided beyond the blue,

Leaving a silence, soft yet true.

Foxes he taught to share their feast

Piled ruby berries for bird and beast;

Beavers he trained in woodwork bright

Raised cedar perch, polished smooth and tight.

Hummingbirds guided to blooms before

Wove rainbow garlands the wise owl wore;

Every creature prepared with care—

A farewell gift for the bird so rare.

At sunset they gathered beneath gold light,

And stories unfurled like wings in flight:

How fears were calmed by a patient ear,

How dreams took shape when his voice was near.

Young Luna trembled upon the stand,

Unsure her fluttering heart would land;

She breathed—remembered his steady wing—

Then cried, “Lift others—let kindness sing!”

Since then the forest has thrived in grace;

Help blooms in every hidden place.

Old Feather’s wisdom still lights the skies—

For lifting others, we too shall rise.

✍️ Why I Wrote This

This fable was inspired by the quiet strength of leaders who choose humility over spectacle, service over power, and kindness over acclaim.

It reflects the values often associated with Pope Francis—stepping down from lofty perches, listening to the overlooked, and leading not with fear, but with compassion.

I wrote this story for young readers and future leaders alike—to remind us that true greatness rarely seeks a spotlight, and that sometimes the most powerful crown is the one worn with humility.

—Ross Boulton