I remember the days when humans and mice lived together in harmony. We were a symbiotic pair, each contributing to the other's well-being. I'd scurry around the farm, protecting the crops from pests and rodents that threatened to destroy them. In return, the humans would leave out crumbs and cheese for me, a token of appreciation for my hard work.
Those were the days when life was simple, and our bond was strong. We relied on each other, and our mutualism was palpable. I'd scamper around the farmhouse, feeling safe and protected under the watchful eyes of my human friends.
But everything changed when the humans started to evolve. They began to build complex structures, and their priorities shifted. They became more focused on their material possessions, their wealth, and their technology. They forgot about the little creatures that lived alongside them, the ones that had helped them thrive.
As time passed, the humans started to shut their doors against us. They no longer wanted us around, and we were forced to adapt to a new way of life. We had to sneak into their houses, scavenging for food and resources in the shadows. Our lives became a constant struggle, a never-ending battle to survive.
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When the humans are away, we come out of our hiding spots, scurrying around the house, gathering whatever we can find. It's a stressful existence, always looking over our shoulders, waiting for the moment when we'll be discovered. And when we are, the consequences are dire. We've learned to be cunning, to avoid their traps and their wrath.
But it's not just about survival; it's about raising our young ones. As mice, we need a warm and safe environment to nurture our babies, to teach them the ways of the world. But in this new world, it's almost impossible. We're constantly on edge, never knowing when the humans will discover us and try to eliminate us.
I've seen it happen to many of my friends. They've been brutally wounded or killed, their bodies discarded like trash. And in retaliation, we've destroyed their clothes and documents, a futile attempt to strike back against our oppressors.
As I write this from my hiding spot, I can feel the weight of the world bearing down on me. I'm tired of living in fear, tired of scrounging for scraps. I wish the humans could see us, could understand our plight. We're not just pests; we're living creatures, struggling to survive in a world that's hostile to us.
I know it's unlikely that my plea will be heard, but I have to try. Maybe, just maybe, there's a human out there who will read this and see us in a different light. Maybe they'll remember the old days, when we worked together, side by side. Maybe they'll realize that we're not just mice; we're fellow vertebrates, deserving of compassion and understanding.
Until then, I'll continue to hide, to scavenge, and to survive. But I'll never forget the days when humans and mice lived together in harmony, when our bond was strong, and our mutualism was real. Those were the days when life was simple, and our future was bright.
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