Feathers:


"These feathers mean the world to me. They may just seem like feathers to you, but the backstory is what makes this important to me."
"Well, my first feather was originally just a plain dark brown feather. When I was small, my father told a story about a giant bird who protected the earth, named Peak. I was scared, yet intrigued, by this strange tale. The next night, he came home with a feather. He told me it was from Peak, and had said it was specifically for me. I was astounded, and while trying to figure out the mystery, my father gentley put the feather in my mane."
"The golden stripes also have much significance. I was helping my mother re-coat the fence one day, in my teen years I think, and we painted it a marvelous dark brown. When we were done, she had told me to wait, as she had a surprise. I sat down, impatient, but it was well worth the 2 minute wait. The had brought out two smaller brushes and a container of golden shimmering paint. I was told to paint whatever I wanted on the gate of the fence, as my artistic ability was outstanding to most. I brainstormed, and ended up drawing a landscape of mountains. My favorite part: I included Peak, proud and strong, protecting the land beneath him. I took my feather off, painted some stripes, and cherished my first feather from then on."
"My second feather? Oh yes, it all started at my house. I headed out for a walk, loving the peace and quiet of the woods far more than the bustle of the town. I made my way along the path, breathing in the fresh, crisp air. All of a sudden, I heard a shriek in the distance. Reluctantly, I ran ahead, hoping to help whoever was in trouble. I rounded the corner, and there was a small bird and a cat. I gasped, and both the bird and feline looked at me. I jumped in front of the bird, wishing I was threatening enough. The cat, with a growl, turned and left me with the bird."
"I turned to my little bird friend then. There were a couple of feathers scattered here and there, and a small, frightened blue jay in the midst of it all. Gently, I bent down, and sniffed him. He smelled healthy, which overjoyed me. I licked his head, grabbed one of his feathers, and started for my house. I heard a faint tweet behind me. I glanced back to see the little guy fly toward me and land on my head. I smiled, and brought the little guy home. When I got home, I fastened my second feather, the little blue jay feather, into my mane."