The story of the Rainbow Crow is a Lenape legend, symbolizing the value of selflessness and service. According to the legend, after a long period of cold weather, animals of the world community become worried. They decide to send a messenger to the Great Sky Spirit to ask for relief from the extended cold. The Rainbow Crow, the most beautifully feathered bird of the group, offers to make the arduous journey. He travels safely, and is rewarded by the Great Spirit with the gift of fire to warm the world of animals. He carries the gift in his beak back to his people, but upon his return, he does not appear to be the same bird that he once was. The fire has scorched his plumage black, with only hints of his previous color, and his voice has been made rough and hoarse by the smoke. In this way, his sacrifice is commemorated that he brought fire to warm those around him.