Leo loved bedtime. He loved snuggling with his dad, Papa, and listening to stories. Tonight, Papa had a special story to tell.
It was about a little firefly named Flicker who couldn't find his way home. Flicker was a tiny light, but he was brave. He flew and flew, searching for the familiar glow of his family's firefly meadow.
Papa used his hands to make Flicker's light dance across Leo's bedroom ceiling. 'Flicker was all alone,' Papa whispered, his voice soft and warm. 'He was scared and missed his family very much.'
Leo listened intently, his eyes wide. He imagined Flicker, so small and lost. He felt sorry for the little firefly.
'But Flicker didn't give up,' Papa continued. 'He kept flying, looking for any sign of home. He even asked a wise old owl for help.'
Leo giggled. 'Did the owl help him?', he asked.
'Oh yes,' said Papa. 'The owl told Flicker to follow the brightest star. And you know what? Flicker did! He followed the star and found his family waiting for him!'
Leo snuggled closer to Papa. 'He found his way home!', he exclaimed happily.
'He did,' Papa agreed, giving Leo a big hug. 'Just like you'll always find your way back to me, even if you're a little scared sometimes.'
Papa kissed Leo's forehead. 'Sometimes, feeling a little lost is okay. What's important is that we never give up searching for what we love and who we love.'
Leo thought about Flicker, then about Papa. He felt safe and loved, knowing he always had Papa to guide him, just like the star guided Flicker. He felt the warmth of Papa's hug and knew he wasn't alone. He was loved.
That night, Leo slept soundly, dreaming of fireflies and stars and the comforting glow of his dad's love. He knew that no matter what happened, he could always count on Papa, his guiding star.