In the Academic Zoo, animals were judged not by their lasting contributions but by how quickly and grandly they performed. The peacock dazzled the zookeepers and visitors with vibrant feathers, gaining instant applause and recognition.
Meanwhile, the tortoise worked quietly, planting seeds along her slow, steady and deliberate journey. The zookeepers barely noticed the tortoise’s efforts. “She’s too slow”, they said. “What has she achieved today?”
Years later, as the peacock’s feathers dulled and his applause and visitors dropped, the tortoise’s seeds had grown into a lush forest, providing food and shelter for generations of animals. Only then did the Zoo and visitors understand the value of her steady, purposeful work.
Moral – true academic legacy lies in long-term impact, not short-term gains and recognition. Value the quiet and steady builders of tomorrow.
How do you prioritise the impact of your contributions?
What are your strategies for making a meaningful long-term impact on future generations?
Christa & Anne-Wil
