Leo the lion cub didn't want to go to sleep. It wasn't that he disliked his cozy den, or his mama’s warm hugs. Leo was just… worried. What if he missed something exciting? What if a fun game started while he was asleep?
Mama Lion smiled gently. “Oh, Leo,” she said, “the best adventures happen in dreams! And everything will be right here when you wake up. Close your eyes, and let’s count all the good things about today.”
Leo scrunched up his nose. “But what if I think of something *bad*?” he asked.
“Then we’ll think of something even *better* to replace it!” Mama Lion replied. “Let’s start with something you loved. What was your favorite part of today?”
Leo thought hard. “Playing hide-and-seek with my sister, Luna!” he exclaimed. “She’s really good at hiding!”
“Wonderful!” Mama Lion said. “Now, think of something else. Something cozy.”
“My warm milk before bed!” Leo giggled. He remembered the sweet, creamy taste.
“Perfect! And how about something you’re good at?” Mama Lion prompted.
“Roaring!” Leo puffed out his chest and let out a tiny, practice roar. It wasn’t very loud, but it made Mama Lion laugh.
They continued counting good things – the sunshine, the yummy leaves he ate, the soft grass under his paws. With each good thought, Leo felt his worries shrinking, like bubbles popping.
Mama Lion hummed a soft tune. “Now, Leo,” she whispered, “imagine all those good things swirling around you like a warm, golden light. Let that light fill your dreams.”
Leo closed his eyes, picturing sunshine, milk, and Luna’s smiling face. He took a deep breath, feeling safe and loved. The golden light grew brighter and brighter.
Soon, Leo’s little roars turned into soft snores. He was fast asleep, dreaming of wonderful adventures with his sister and his mama. And Mama Lion knew, with a happy heart, that even little lion cubs can find courage and peace when bedtime comes.
Sweet dreams, little one. Remember to count your good things, and let them fill your dreams with joy.