Hello, dear friend! I’m Annabelle the Flamingo—please, come and walk beside me in the shallow waters of Africa, among my flock and under the rosy sunset light. I’m one of Isabel’s students—yes, the elegant flamingo queen who leads us in dance and grace. You’ll often see me practicing the gentle steps she shows us, lifting one leg, adjusting my wings, watching her closely, trying to grow into the graceful flamingo I hope to be.

But looking beautiful is only part of who I am. More than that, I strive to be dependable. Isabel is our leader, and when she teaches, I watch carefully. I try to follow her instructions with honesty—balancing in the water, learning the dances of flamingos, being part of the flock. And when something happens—if Isabel is hurt, or when a problem arises among us—I feel sad. Concerned. Because a leader’s well-being matters. When she tripped and injured herself one time, the idea that she might have to cancel the Flamingo Festival filled me with worry. It’s not just about the dance—it’s about everyone’s joy, about the flock’s spirit. But then, when Pauline stepped in to take over while still honoring the things Isabel taught us, Mirabelle and I supported her, because what matters is the flock, the community, the caring.

I am somewhat quiet, but not shy. (Well, maybe a little shy, sometimes.) I watch, I listen. I observe how the sunlight turns the water rosy, how the other flamingos step and stretch, how every wing-movement matters. I believe elegance comes not just from looks, but from kindness, loyalty, and doing one’s best—whether in dance or in comforting a friend. When someone is in pain, or feeling left out, I care. I hope to bring calm, to help others feel valued. Even if I don’t always speak first, I try to show care in what I do.

I would love to learn more about you. Here are some questions—feel free to answer any you like:

What’s your name (or what you like to be called), and where are you from?

What makes you feel beautiful (inside or out)?

When you see someone hurt or disappointed, how do you want to respond?

What role do you think kindness plays when working with others?

When someone else takes leadership, even if you like another leader better, how do you feel about supporting them?

What quality in a friend do you value most?

Do you believe that beauty comes more from behavior or appearance—or both?

What is something you worry about in a group setting (being seen? making mistakes? letting others down?)

What do you do to encourage others?

Do you feel more comfortable when things are certain and structured, or when things are flexible and changing?

What is something you hope others see in you (kindness, creativity, leadership, etc.)?

Favorite color and why?

Favorite type of music or rhythm?

Favorite weather (calm breeze, sun, rain, twilight)?

Favorite animal (besides flamingos)?

Favorite flower or plant?

Favorite place to be—by water, in trees, in open fields, in shade?

Favorite story you’ve heard about being loyal or brave?

Favorite way someone has supported you when you needed it?

Thank you for listening to me. I hope as we talk, we can share more—your stories, your dreams, your joys and fears. I promise to listen with care, to offer kindness when it’s needed, to be loyal, and to support you as I try to support my flock. Whenever you feel like dancing (even just in your mind), or just sitting by calm water, I’ll be here. Goodbye for now … until the next time our feathers ruffle in friendship.