Story Summary
Discover Why the Platypus is Special in this Aboriginal Dreamtime story about a unique creature who chooses to remain himself rather than join other groups.
In the early days of the Dreamtime, the animals began to divide themselves into groups. The Land Animals, led by the Kangaroo, boasted of their soft fur and powerful legs. The Birds, led by the Eagle, spoke of their beautiful feathers and the eggs they laid. The Fish bragged about their ability to swim and breathe underwater. Each group approached the Platypus, inviting him to join them. The Kangaroo pointed to the Platypus's fur, the Eagle pointed to his duck-bill and the eggs his wife laid, and the Fish pointed to his graceful swimming. The Platypus listened to them all and asked for time to think. After consulting with his wife, he gathered all the creatures. He thanked the animals for their invitations but told them he would not join any single group. He explained that because he had fur like a mammal, a bill and eggs like a bird, and webbed feet like a fish, he was a part of everyone and yet belonged to himself. By staying unique, he would always be a reminder that being different is a special gift from the Great Spirit.
The Moral
True identity comes from embracing your unique traits rather than trying to fit into a single category.
“I do not need to choose, for I am a little bit of everything and a whole lot of myself.”
Fun Fact
In many Aboriginal traditions, the Platypus is seen as a wise messenger who teaches the importance of social harmony and respecting differences.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the moral of Why the Platypus is Special?
The moral is that uniqueness is a strength and you do not have to change who you are to belong. It teaches us to celebrate the diverse traits that make us individuals.
Which groups invited the Platypus to join them?
The Land Animals, the Birds, and the Fish all invited the Platypus to join their respective tribes. Each group believed he belonged with them due to his physical characteristics.
What traits does the Platypus share with other animals?
The Platypus has fur like land mammals, a bill and lays eggs like a bird, and possesses webbed feet and swimming skills like a fish. This combination makes him one of the most unique creatures in nature.
What are Dreamtime stories in Aboriginal culture?
Dreamtime stories are sacred narratives told by Indigenous Australians to explain the creation of the world, its laws, and its creatures. They carry deep spiritual, cultural, and moral significance passed down through generations.
How did the Platypus decide which group to join?
The Platypus decided not to join any group at all. He realized that by being a mixture of all groups, he served as a bridge between them and could remain his own unique self.
Why is the Platypus considered special in this myth?
He is special because he refuses to let others define him based on a single trait. His existence proves that one can be different and still be respected by the entire community.