Deep in the land of Nordland, nestled amongst snowy mountains and sparkling fjords, lived a little blue train. This wasn't just any train; it was the Nordland Sleep Train! Every night, its job was very important: to deliver sleepy dust to the stars so everyone could have sweet dreams.
Old Man Winter, with his long white beard, was the train’s conductor. He always said, “Kindness is the most important cargo, little train. More important than sleepy dust!” The little train puffed and whistled, trying its best to be kind to everyone it met.
One night, the train was chugging along when it saw a little snowdrift blocking the tracks. A tiny field mouse was trying to push it away, but it was too big! The little train gently nudged the snowdrift with its front, clearing the way. “Thank you!” squeaked the mouse. “You’re very helpful!”
Further along the tracks, the train met a grumpy owl. The owl hooted, “Hoo! You’re too loud! I’m trying to rest!” Old Man Winter reminded the train, “Slow down, little one. Be mindful of others.” The train slowed to a gentle pace, whispering along the rails.
Finally, the train reached the Star Station. The stars twinkled excitedly! Old Man Winter carefully loaded the sleepy dust into special star-shaped containers. “Now, little train,” he said, “deliver one container to each star. And remember to say goodnight!”
The little train carefully rolled from star to star, delivering the sleepy dust. “Goodnight, twinkling star!” it whistled softly. Each star glowed a little dimmer, getting ready for sleep. The train felt so happy to be helping.
As the last star drifted off to dreamland, Old Man Winter smiled. “You did a wonderful job, little train. You were kind, helpful, and followed all my instructions.” The little train puffed with pride. It knew that even a small train could make a big difference.
Back in Nordland, the little train settled into its shed, feeling sleepy itself. It closed its eyes, dreaming of twinkling stars and happy dreams. And as it drifted off to sleep, it remembered Old Man Winter’s words: Kindness is the most important cargo of all. Now close *your* eyes, little one, and have sweet dreams too.