The Jackal’s thoughts on serving the Lion

In the fables of India (known as the Panchatantra), the Lion reigns as the king of the animals, often accompanied by a devoted jackal who serves as a majordomo or representative for the big cat. The jackal’s unwavering loyalty fulfils the Lion’s orders unquestionably, earning the Lion’s gratitude. Yet, the king’s actions sometimes embarrass the jackal, who remains steadfast in representing and supporting the Lion which may come from the fact that in real life, jackals steal food from Lions and half the time while Lions defend their kills from jackals, they may inadvertently allow one to eat their kill in the midst of dividing their time between defending their meal and dining. This loyal service evokes mixed feelings in the jackal, which encompass both positive and negative aspects as this glimpse into the jackal’s thoughts is revealed in a nod to his service to the king in Indian folklore.

        Good Points

1. There is absolutely no greater honour in existence than faithfully serving His Majesty.
   

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2. What am I here for Your Highness?
   

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3. I make it my business in ensuring I am knowledgeable about you, all for the sake of my King.

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4. I am your humble vassal Your Majesty
   

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5. If their actions upset you, my king, they also upset me. Likewise, if their actions bring you joy, they bring me joy as well.

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6. Whatever you ask of me Your Majesty, your wish is my command.
   

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7. If you meet what I expect, you also meet the expectations of my king in return.
   

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   Bad Points

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   1. This majestic beast, with his impressive mane and powerful muscles exuding pride, has ensnared me in servitude by means of a demeaning manner through degradation and abuse for his own amusement. Astonishingly, he has no qualms in doing so, despite being unworthy of even casting a shadow near me.

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   2. No matter how much effort I put into serving the king, he consistently finds joy in demeaning me in clear ways.

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   3. If I were to openly express to the king that he is treating me unfairly, it would lead to even greater embarrassment for me due to him.

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   4. If I were to make myself appear foolish, would it lead the king to recognize that despite my significant efforts for him, he finds amusement in seeing me as an object of entertainment?

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   5. At times, I ponder the actions I have taken that lead to reasons for the king ridiculing me openly despite him being thankful for my actions but resorting to mistreating me simultaneously.

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   6. At times, I ponder why the king chooses to cause me pain, even when he is content with my service. Does he view me as a mere tool, valuable only until discarded?