I had my first negative forest experience today so it prompted me to write my first blog entry. I was genuinely excited to see the number of deer in the forest today. Perhaps I'm never awake during the times when most other deer are, but for me, it was the most other deer I'd ever had the opportunity to roam the forest with. Generally, it's quite easy to make friends; you walk up to one another, greet each other in some way, and then if there is mutual interest in casting spells or leaping over rocks and fallen logs together, then a new friendship is born.
I've noticed that some deer, older deer most likely, have formed their own little herds with whom they spend their time with. What I didn't get to experience until today was the exclusiveness of said herds. I happened across a large group of frolicking deer, who seemed to be doing nothing in particular, and I thought to join them. I bowed to the group and greeted each deer with an exchange of sniffing and perhaps playful rearing. However, one deer didn't return my greeting, but instead stood shaking its head repeatedly. Afraid I'd somehow offended it, I began a nearly 15 minute long ordeal of trying to express I was merely trying to make friends. Apparently, none of this made sense to the deer that had given itself brain damage by the repetitive shaking of its head.
Now, I know there's some deer that are just more likable than others, but instead of leaving me alone, the deer started to try to pick a fight with me. It followed me around and made aggressive motions toward me until several of the other deer caught on and did the same thing. So it was that simple. I was being shunned in the peaceful endless forest. It was a disturbing psychological experience, finding that even through simple gestures, and even through knowing absolutely nothing about another deer, there's already cliques and prejudices going on. Instead of feeling hurt, however, I was fascinated. I wondered through what actions I could take could I get different responses from the small herd of haters.
Now, I confess, after trying the scared/contrite approach, in which I left at their "request", I took on a far more obnoxious act. Every time I'd come across them, I'd irritate them in some way. Now, saying it here makes me seem very immature and foolish, but after long periods of time being harassed by these little bullies, I had to have my fun as well. I'd played the submissive part, but now I decided to take offensive action. I took to following them around the forest, chasing them from whatever location they were resting or playing in. I don't know why, but there was something so amusing in the simple acts that I was laughing out loud. How strange that such a simplistic form of life and communication can be this complex. I was thoroughly impressed. Tale of Tales has accomplished more than most people realize through the Endless Forest.
Needless to say, the experience did nothing to lessen my interest in the forest. It only makes me more determined to establish myself as a part of the community, and to make sure I'm not the brain-damaged bullies that chase away potential new friends.