Once upon a time, in a small village nestled amongst the lush green hills of Tamil Nadu, lived a little girl named Meena. Meena loved playing in the fields, collecting colorful flowers, and sharing her delicious fruits with her friends.
One sunny afternoon, while exploring the whispering coconut groves, Meena stumbled upon a little boy who looked very sad. He sat alone under a shade tree, clutching a small, worn-out book in his hand. He seemed lost and upset. He kept sniffling and didn't want to play.
Meena’s heart felt heavy seeing the boy’s sadness. She had learned from her wise grandmother about the importance of kindness and helping others. Without hesitation, Meena approached him.
‘Hello,’ Meena said gently. ‘Why do you look so sad?’
The boy looked up, his eyes glistening with tears. ‘I lost my favourite book. It has all my stories from my grandfather. I can't find it anywhere.’
Meena’s eyes softened. She knew exactly how important a favourite book could be. She gently held the boy’s hand and suggested, ‘Let’s look for it together.’
They searched carefully under the mango trees, in the tall grass, and even peeked behind the giant banyan tree. They called out, ‘Book, book! Where are you?’
Finally, as the sun began to set, casting long shadows across the fields, Meena spotted something tucked beneath a sprawling hibiscus bush. It was the boy's book, lying peacefully amongst the colorful flowers.
Meena carefully lifted the book and placed it in the boy’s hands. A wide smile spread across his face as he looked at the book, tears of joy streaming down his cheeks. ‘Thank you, Meena!’ he exclaimed.
Meena smiled warmly. ‘You are welcome,’ she whispered. ‘Sharing makes us happy.’
From that day forward, Meena and the boy became the best of friends. They often played together, sharing stories and laughter, reminding each other of the joy of helping others.
Meena knew that kindness was the most precious gift she could give to anyone. And she learned that sharing and empathy are the greatest of gifts.
And as the boy and Meena walked home, Meena thought about how, by sharing, she herself felt even happier. The stars twinkled like sparkling gems, and she knew it was a special day, a day she would always remember.
Meena then happily bid the boy goodnight. And now, as it's time for you to close your eyes and drift off to sleep, remember how special kindness is. Go to sleep peacefully, little one!