Long ago, chameleon had only one colour, dull brown.

He wandered in the forest unnoticed, ignored by animals and even the birds above.

He longed to stand out.

One sunny day, he overheard the parrots laughing. "Look at him, always the same colour. No style at al!"

The words stung and he wished he could shine like them.

That night chameleon climbed to a quiet hill and cried.

A falling star streaked across the sky. "I wish I could be colourful just like the forest," he whispered.

The forest spirit heard him. Moved by his wish, he appeared in a misty form.

"You want colours?" He asked gently.

"Yes," he nodded excitedly. "But more than that I want to belong."

The spirit smiled. "Then, I will give you a gift," he said.

He however told him there was a condition. He must use them wisely. With a soft breath, she touched his skin.

Instantly, Chameleon shimmered green like leaves, then red like berries then faded into the bark of a tree.

He gasped with joy.

The next day all animals that saw him were shocked. "Is that Chameleon?" They all asked in disbelief.

He then smiled blending with flowers, rocks, and even shadows. Everyone stared in awe and respect.

With new gift, came responsibility. He had to learn when to show off, and when to hide.

Sometimes it was fun, other times it kept him safe from danger.

One time, he tricked a hungry snake by vanishing into green leaves. The forest cheered.

"He is not just colourful, he is clever!" exclaimed Owl. Chameleon smiled from the shadows.

His life had changed, he was no longer laughed at.

He was known as the wise one who could change with the surrounding environment.

He taught animals that blending in was strength.

Years passed Chameleon still shifted colours but now with pride and purpose.

That's why to this day the chameleon changes colour to hide. He also does it to remind us that true beauty lies in how we adapt and stay true to who we are.