21st Dec 2024
Once upon a time, in a world of peace and plenty, there was a great man named Deucalion. He often said to his wife, Pyrrha, "Let's offer sacrifices to the gods each week, so they stay happy with us." This was a great way they lived, until the time came when men began to argue and fight.
As days turned to hot summers and cold winters, the people built caves and grottos to find shelter. They farmed the land, hoping to save food for the harsh seasons. But greed grew, and gold was discovered, leading to fierce quarrels and fierce battles over shiny treasures. One day, Deucalion sighed, "The world is changing for the worse, Pyrrha."
Many no longer cared for the gods, forgetting the kindness shown in the 'Golden Age.' Instead, men became greedy and cruel. Only Deucalion and Pyrrha continued to offer sacrifices. Seeing this, Jupiter, the king of the gods, decided to wash away the wickedness of mankind with a mighty deluge.
Jupiter released the South Wind, and the clouds gathered darkly above. It started to rain, slowly at first, then faster. The fields soon disappeared under water, and Deucalion's heart skipped a beat. "This storm is unlike any I have ever seen!" he exclaimed.
The rivers overflowed, taking everything in their path. Animals, big and small, swam to higher ground, and even dolphins played in the trees. Pyrrha held Deucalion's hand tight, saying, "We must find safety! Climb, my love!" So they headed for the hills, climbing ever higher.
As the waters rose higher and higher, they finally reached the peak of Mount Parnassus. Deucalion and Pyrrha made a small shelter on the ship as hope dwindled. They looked around at the desolation. Pyrrha whispered, "Will the storm ever end?"
Days turned to weeks, and at last, the rain stopped. The clouds began to break. But the world was different now; it was covered in mud, with eerie silence. Deucalion felt more alone than ever, saying, "I miss the sound of life around us, Pyrrha. This silence is haunting!"
In the stillness, a voice echoed in their hearts, urging them,
Deucalion, throw the bones of your great mother!
Bewildered, Deucalion pondered, "What could that mean? Mother Earth? Her bones must be the stones!" Gathering the stones from around him, he made a sacrifice, a final hope.
With a heavy heart, he tossed the stones behind him. As they turned around, astonished, they saw the stones had transformed into men and women, populating the earth once again. Pyrrha gasped, "Look, Deucalion! They are alive!" They realized they were not alone anymore.
From this day forth, the Earth was reborn, colorful and lively, even if some of the people bore hearts as tough as stones. Deucalion smiled, nodding to Pyrrha, saying, "Let us guide these new beings so that they remember kindness and love."