Leo the lion cub was a very bouncy, playful little lion. He loved to pounce and roar and chase butterflies! But Leo didn't always listen. His mama would say, “Leo, please stay close,” but Leo would zoom off after a bright blue butterfly. He thought exploring was much more fun than listening.
One sunny afternoon, Mama Lion said, “Leo, we’re going to the berry patch! Stay right behind me, and don’t wander.” Leo promised he would, but then… he spotted a fluffy dandelion! He just *had* to see how far its seeds could float. He ran after it, forgetting all about his mama.
When Leo looked up, Mama Lion was nowhere to be seen! He called out, “Mama? Mama!” But the berry patch was big, and his little roar got lost among the bushes. Leo started to feel a little scared. He wished he had listened.
Just then, a friendly little zebra named Zara trotted by. “Are you lost, little lion?” she asked kindly. Leo nodded, tears welling up in his eyes. Zara said, “My mama always tells me to listen carefully. It keeps me safe. Let’s call for your mama together!”
Leo and Zara called and called. Finally, they heard a familiar roar! “Leo!” Mama Lion came rushing through the bushes, relief flooding her face. She hugged Leo tightly. “Oh, Leo, I was so worried! It’s important to listen, sweetie. It keeps you safe and helps us have fun together.”
Leo hugged his mama back. “I’m sorry, Mama,” he said. “I was chasing a dandelion and I forgot to listen.” Mama Lion smiled. “That’s okay, Leo. We all make mistakes. But now you know how important it is to listen.”
They all walked back to the berry patch together, and Leo stayed right beside his mama. He helped her pick the juiciest, reddest berries. He listened when she told him which berries were the sweetest. And he realized that listening wasn’t so bad after all – it made everything more fun and safe! As the sun set, Leo snuggled close to his mama, happy to be a good listener. He knew that listening meant his mama could keep him safe and they could enjoy adventures together.
Now close your eyes, little one. Just like Leo, remember to listen to those who love you. Sweet dreams!