The Big Tree

Foreword

As we say goodnight to our favourite TV characters, Vihaan picks up the story book of the day… we read two stories at least , before he dozes off to sleep, head on his fluffy little car pillow.

Last Sunday was different. He wanted to tell me a story instead and put the book away.

Who doesn’t love animals? Vihaan does too.

I have been hearing this story everyday now and have really started liking it – So now here’s the story of Halo the lion and the Big tree for you.

As narrated by Vihaan, 4 yrs in 2014

Sarda Mohan, Mom

Halo loved sleeping in the afternoons. A hearty meal and a refreshing nap were all that he looked forward to. He tucked himself into his bed and slept soundly dreaming of flying over the mountains and being the best king his jungle ever had when he heard a loud noise.

He woke up with a start. How dare someone spoil his beautiful dream?

He went out in a rage and roared,“Who dare disturb my sleep? Step forward and tell me at once”.

There was no response.

The strong wind was blowing over the branches of the trees and the sky looked dark and frightening.

The Big tree that stood outside Halo’s home rolled his eyes in fright because the strong wind had just broken a branch on his left side. Halo noticed the tree and immediately decided he was the culprit. He picked up an axe that lay nearby and went over to the tree and hit him hard on the trunk.

The poor tree was shocked beyond expression. The little rabbits, squirrels, the birds and other animals that were hiding near the trees to keep away from the strong winds were aghast too.They hid in fright lest Halo’s anger turn upon them.

But one little tree that stood nearby spoke up sadly though, “ Excuse me Halo, you are really hollow!. You have done a huge blunder by hitting the Big tree. It was not he who made the loud noise, but the wind you see!”

Halo was still seething with anger and he turned towards the little tree. Just then, a branch on a tree nearby that had broken in the wind started falling down with a loud noise. Halo suddenly realized his mistake and felt guilty.

He dropped the axe and rushed to hug the Big tree.

“Oh how ungrateful I am,” he repented.” You shelter us all and you are also the home to all those little birds and squirrels with whom you share your tastiest fruits.

“As the king of the jungle, I should not have lost my patience so easily. Forgive me – oh big tree” he begged.

“I am sorry for what I have done. Let me bring some water and pour on you so that your wound heals soon” Halo was in tears.

All the animals slowly came out of their hiding places and stood around Halo and the Big tree. As Halo turned to walk towards his home to get some water, it started to drizzle.

“Dear king, the skies are happy with you for realizing your mistake. See how they are showering us with sweet drops of happiness” the big tree said.

Halo ran over and hugged the little tree too and thanked him for being brave enough to point out his mistake.

The animals and the trees danced happily in the rain.

Mother Earth always blesses us with the best - trees, flowers, fruits, cute birds, tall mountains, gurgling streams, fishes and all. But we make mistakes like Halo and harm this kind generous earth with our hasty and nasty actions.

A little thoughtfulness, love and care can keep our world beautiful forever.