Turtle power

He-who-should-be-named-but-unfortunately-still-doesn't-have-a-name continues to taunt the herbivorous zebra, who, without fangs and claws, is unable to issue any threatening stance on this matter. There is a "Da Vinci Code", "National Treasure" feel to this recent development, and Jerome will continue to monitor this closely with his trusty sidekick, known to many as the Laughing Hyena of Tanzania.

Back in the Seregenti, Jerome is getting progressively anhedonic for reasons he is unable to fathom. Too many events have happened around here, and the verdant plains that used to reflect a brilliant emerald sheen is now overcast in a depressing grey. Eclipsed by billowy clouds that portend a thunderstorm, the sun fails to spread its cheerful glow to those who inhabit the plains. As Jerome munches on his leaves, he feels the piercing cold of a merciless gale.

The downpour began.

Cold and wet, Jerome stands motionless, with precipitation beating forcefully on his striped back. He wonders if things can get any worse.

As Jerome ponders amidst the howling wind and pattering rain, he experiences an epiphany. Without rain, the grass will not grow, and the river will not flow. Without wind, the plants will not pollinate, and winged fruits will not fly. Pain is sometimes necessary, and can be a rite of passage.

Trudging along the muddy landscape, Jerome releases a lazy bray. He is thankful for all the kindly advice and concerned messages he has received in recent weeks. His depression now is probably just a phase of grief. If all goes well, the next step would be acceptance.

Didn't mean to spread the despondency. The zebra is merely trying to rationalise his thoughts in words and see the meaning behind all this.

As Master Oogway wisely opined, "There is no coincidence. There is no accident."

Jerome just has to believe in himself.