Ferdinand was a bull, but not a very bull-like bull. While the other young bulls practiced butting heads and stomping their feet, Ferdinand preferred to sit in the meadow and smell the flowers. He loved the bright red poppies and the sunny yellow daisies. He thought they were much more interesting than being strong and scary.
The other bulls would tease him. “Ferdinand, you should be practicing!” they’d bellow. But Ferdinand would just smile and pick another flower. He knew he was different, and that was okay. He liked being gentle and peaceful.
As the sun began to set, Ferdinand’s mama called him in for bedtime. “Ferdinand, it’s time to wash your hooves and get ready for sleep,” she mooed softly. Ferdinand happily trotted towards the barn.
First, Mama Bull gently washed Ferdinand’s big, black hooves with warm water. Then, she brushed his fur until it shone. Ferdinand closed his eyes and enjoyed the gentle brushing. It felt so relaxing!
Next, Mama Bull read Ferdinand a story about a little cloud who floated peacefully across the sky. The story was very quiet and calm, just like Ferdinand liked it. He snuggled close to his mama, feeling safe and loved.
“Remember, Ferdinand,” Mama Bull said, “it’s okay to be different. It’s okay to like flowers instead of fighting. What matters is being kind and peaceful.” Ferdinand nodded, feeling very sleepy.
Mama Bull tucked Ferdinand into his soft, straw bed. She gave him a gentle kiss on the forehead. “Sweet dreams, my little flower-loving bull,” she whispered.
Ferdinand closed his eyes and thought about all the beautiful flowers he had smelled that day. He imagined floating on a fluffy cloud, just like in the story. He felt peaceful and happy, and soon, he drifted off to sleep. He knew that tomorrow would be another wonderful day to be himself.