Once upon a time, in a cozy little cottage, lived a sweet girl named Cinderella. She loved to help all the little animals in the forest. She’d leave out seeds for the birds, and fresh water for the bunnies. She always had a smile, even when things were hard.
One day, a grand ball was announced at the castle! Cinderella wished she could go, but her stepmother said she had too much work to do. Cinderella didn’t complain. She finished her chores with a cheerful heart.
With a little magic, Cinderella was able to go to the ball! She wore a beautiful dress that shimmered and sparkled. She danced and danced, and everyone loved her kind smile.
But as she danced, a tiny sparkle fell from her dress! Cinderella didn’t notice at first, but a little mouse saw it and scurried to pick it up. He wanted to give it back, but he was too shy.
The mouse ran into a grumpy badger who was having a very bad day. The badger had lost his favorite berry-picking basket. The mouse, remembering Cinderella’s kindness, offered the sparkle to the badger. ‘Maybe this will cheer you up,’ he squeaked.
The sparkle didn’t fix the basket, but the badger was surprised by the mouse’s kindness. He started to feel a little better. He then helped the mouse find Cinderella!
Cinderella was so happy to have the sparkle back, but even happier to see the mouse and the badger together, smiling. She realized that the sparkle wasn’t the most important thing. It was the kindness she showed to others, and the kindness they showed back.
She thanked the mouse and the badger, and continued to enjoy the ball, knowing that a kind heart shines brighter than any sparkle. And even after the magic wore off, Cinderella continued to be kind to everyone she met.
From that day on, Cinderella understood that true beauty comes from within, and that helping others always makes the world a brighter place. Now close your eyes, little one, and remember to let your own kindness sparkle!