Luna the firefly was a very busy little bug. Every night, she zipped and zoomed around Meadowsweet Meadow, blinking her bright light. But tonight was different. Tonight, Luna’s mama told her it was time to practice saying goodnight. “Saying goodnight is a kind way to show you care, Luna,” Mama Firefly explained.
Luna wasn’t sure. Saying goodnight meant the fun had to slow down. She flew over to Barnaby Bear, who was yawning widely. “Good…good…” Luna started, but then zoomed off before she could finish. Barnaby just blinked sleepily. That didn’t feel very kind.
Next, she found Rosie Rabbit nibbling on a clover. “Goodnight, Rosie!” Luna called, but she was already flitting towards Freddie Frog. Freddie was practicing his nighttime croaks. “Goodnight, Freddie!” Luna said quickly, then buzzed away. She felt like she was rushing!
Mama Firefly found Luna looking worried. “What’s wrong, sweetie?” she asked. Luna explained, “I said goodnight, but I didn’t *mean* it. I just wanted to get it over with!”
Mama Firefly smiled. “Saying goodnight isn’t about finishing a task, Luna. It’s about showing your friends you’re thinking of them and wishing them sweet dreams. It’s about being grateful for the day you shared.”
Luna took a deep breath and flew back to Barnaby Bear. She landed gently on his nose. “Goodnight, Barnaby,” she said softly. “I hope you have wonderful dreams.” Barnaby smiled in his sleep. Luna felt a warm glow inside.
She found Rosie Rabbit and said, “Goodnight, Rosie. Thank you for sharing clover with me today.” Rosie twitched her nose happily. Then, Luna flew to Freddie Frog. “Goodnight, Freddie. Your croaks are the best bedtime music!” Freddie gave a little happy ribbit.
As Luna said goodnight to each friend, she felt calmer and more peaceful. She realized saying goodnight wasn’t the end of the fun, it was a sweet way to remember the fun they’d had. Finally, Luna flew back to her mama. “Goodnight, Mama,” she whispered. “I think I understand now.”
Mama Firefly hugged Luna tight. “Sweet dreams, my little firefly. Remember, a kind goodnight makes everyone’s night a little brighter.” Luna blinked her light one last time, then closed her eyes and drifted off to sleep, dreaming of all her friends in Meadowsweet Meadow.