An Invitation

A pious person, who had overindulged in a feast of roasted turkey to express his gratitude for escaping the many calamities that had befallen others, fell asleep at the table and began to dream. In his dream, he found himself in a country where turkeys were the ruling class. Each year, these turkeys held a grand feast to celebrate their good fortune in being spared from the fates that had claimed many other creatures.

One day, about a week before one of these feasts, he encountered the Supreme Gobbler. The majestic turkey addressed him, saying, "You will please get yourself into good condition for the Thanksgiving dinner."

"Yes, your Excellency," replied the pious person, filled with delight. "I assure you, I shall come hungry. It is no small privilege to dine with your Excellency."

The Supreme Gobbler regarded him for a moment in silence before continuing, "As one of the lower domestic animals, you cannot be expected to know much, but you might know something. Since you do not, allow me to point out that being asked to dinner is one thing, but being asked to dine is another and entirely different matter."

With this significant remark, the Supreme Gobbler took his leave. From that moment on, the pious person dreamed of himself as both white meat and dark meat until he was abruptly awakened by the grim reality of decapitation.