The roast chicken and mashed potatoes were ready, but Wilhelm sat at the dinner table, playing with his fork, looking listlessly at his food. He was thinking of something, and this finally became so obvious that Mother, Inger, wasn't long in asking him what was wrong.
Wilhelm laid his fork down, with a deep sigh. "It's just that me and my friends were trying to think of ways to raise money for the wildlife trade organization. We really wanna help, but it feels so overwhelming. It's such a huge problem."
Inger gave him a rueful smile."I understand your motives, Wilhelm, and I'm so proud of you. Still, you have to remember this is an international problem. It's not something several children can solve all on their own."
Wilhelm stared down at his plate, frustration etching his features."But we've got to do something, Mom. We can't just sit back and let these animals suffer."
Across the table, his little brother Nathaniel was smirking at him. "Hey Willy, what about those 'cats' you found? Why didn't you just adopt them?"
Wilhelm threw him an exasperated look. "They weren't just 'cats', Nathaniel. They were 'big cats'. Lions and tigers. You can't keep them as pets because it's against the law. Besides, they need proper habitats and care by experts."
Inger nodded furiously."Exactly, Nathaniel. Wild animals are where they belong-in the wild life, or with professionals who can take good care of them. It is unsafe for either of them or us."
Another deep sigh from Wilhelm again, like for the umpteenth time, but he nodded in acquiescence. "I know, Mom. But sometimes, it's just like whatever we try just isn't enough. We have to somehow make a difference, small as it may be."
Inger laid a reassuring hand on his shoulder. "Wilhelm, I am so proud of you for caring so much. Keep fighting for what you believe in. Yet, do not forget what is realistic. You and your friends do a great job, but to solve a problem this big, it is going to take more than just your efforts."
A storm of dissonant feelings and frustration overcame Wilhelm, yet all in a storm was a glimmer of hope. He looked into Nathaniel's eyes, who watched him with a mix of humor and quiet admiration. Maybe his brother does have one point: on the tiniest of levels it could be, but if enough people joined in, then even those ripples would grow to something more.
"We'll try again," Wilhelm said, his voice steady with determination."We'll figure out a way to help, no matter what."