“Ed the Intelligent.” This is what most sloths called Ed Choloepus. He was not your average-everyday two-toed sloth. He was a short, stocky sloth with incredible knowledge and common sense. In fact, all other sloths, without hesitation, would go to him for advice, his opinion on common topics, and help with homework. His vast wisdom was widely known, especially by Mr. Seth, the head of the presidential committee. He was searching for some super sloths that would be a sufficient  future president. Clearly, Ed was an excellent choice. Mr. Seth informed Ed and his family about a brief meeting that will be held for all exceptional sloths with great ability.This meeting would be held one month from then. Ed was ecstatic about this, and really wanted to become president. The day of the meeting rapidly approached. He did nothing to prepare for it. His parents urged him to study, but he did not listen. The night before the meeting arrived. Ed’s parents wanted him to get a good night sleep and have a healthy breakfast to ensure that he is alert and ready to impress. That night, Ed went to sleep after midnight. For breakfast the next morning, he devoured a dozen doughnuts and guzzled a gallon of soda. He decided that he did not feel like going to the meeting. He did not see the importance of it.

“I think I’ll stay home and play video games instead. I am obviously the best choice for the job. This silly meeting cannot mean anything.” For the rest of the day, Ed rested in bed and played “Sloth Racers”. When he wasn’t doing that, he was either sleeping or checking SlothBook. Hours later, he saw his friend Sally posted a picture of herself at the meeting. She wrote a caption that said, “At the meeting! Wish me luck!” Ed commented, “Good luck! I was too lazy to go to that. Lol.” His parents were angry, but they realized that Ed is old enough to make his own decisions, and that he needs to understand that the decisions he makes will affect him later in life.
A few months past. Mr.Seth announced that Sally, Ed’s close friend, was chosen to potentially become president. He was distraught. An enormous wave of disappointment came crashing down on him. Tears filled his eyes in a matter of seconds while his throat burned. His face grew redder than an apple. He immediately built up enough strength and courage to approach Mr.Seth.
“Is it possible that I could have just one more chance? I’ll do anything! This is just not fair!”
“I am terribly sorry, Ed, but unfortunately, the decision is final. It’s a shame. You really would have been perfect. You should have attended the meeting,” Mr. Seth sighed.
The meeting! I completely forgot about that silly thing. I cannot believe that because I didn’t attend some dumb meeting, now I cannot be president. Ed’s mind continued to wonder.
To this day, Ed regrets not taking the incentive.  He could have been the most successful, wealthy, well-respected sloth in his entire community. He learned that he needs to take advantage of opportunities while he can, because he never knows when it could affect him in the future.

Moral: Take advantage of opportunities while you can, because you never know when it can affect you in the future.