Friendship

Once upon a time there lived many animals in the forest. They were very friendly and communicative. Once the bird brought the invitation to the forest party in another forest and only one masquerade costume. All animals were impressed by the invitation and especially by the bright costume. Everybody wanted to wear it for the party.

Rabbit Greytail said: “I must wear it on the party because I am the cleverest.”

But Fox Orangepaunch objected: “No, you are stupid. I must wear it because I am the most beautiful.”

But Bear Honey eater told: “Fox, you are ugly. I must wear it because I am the strongest.”

So, all forgot about their friendship and went on arguing and insulting each other. They were quarrelling for such a long time that the masquerade already finished when they remembered about it!

Suddenly all felt very sad; they realized what they had done to each other. Bear said: “Dear Fox, I am very sorry. You are really the most beautiful!”

Fox said: “Dear Rabbit, you are the cleverest! I am sorry”. And Rabbit said:

“Dear Bear, you are the strongest!” Animals understood that nothing is as important as friendship.

Story: Nastya L. & Nastya K., Illustrations: Sveta D., (preschool), Russia
Background: Mao, Japan