Sammy the snake was a very proud snake. He had the shiniest, most colorful scales in the whole wide meadow! They sparkled green and gold and ruby red. Sammy loved to slither around, showing off his scales to everyone. But he didn’t like anyone *touching* them. “These are *my* scales!” he’d say, quickly curling up if anyone got too close.
One sunny afternoon, Rosie the rabbit hopped by. “Oh, Sammy,” she said, “Your scales are so beautiful! Could I just… look closely?” Sammy hesitated. He really didn’t want Rosie to touch his scales, but Rosie looked so sad. “Just a quick peek,” he mumbled, uncurling a little.
Rosie gasped. “They’re even more amazing up close! They remind me of all the jewels in a treasure chest!” Then, Barnaby the bear cub lumbered over. “Wow!” he boomed. “Can I see, Sammy? I’ve never seen scales so bright!” Sammy started to feel a little grumpy. He didn’t want to share his scales with *everyone*.
But then, Old Man Turtle slowly ambled up. He smiled kindly at Sammy. “Those are lovely scales, young one. But you know, the brightest things are even brighter when shared. Seeing others enjoy them brings a special kind of happiness.”
Sammy thought about what Old Man Turtle said. He looked at Rosie and Barnaby, their faces lit up with wonder. He slowly stretched out, letting Rosie gently touch a green scale and Barnaby admire the ruby red one. He even let Old Man Turtle feel the gold.
And you know what? Sammy *did* feel happier! It felt good to see his friends enjoying his scales. He wasn’t just proud of his scales anymore; he was proud to share them. He realized that having shiny scales was fun, but having happy friends was even better.
From that day on, Sammy the snake still loved his scales, but he loved sharing them even more. He learned that kindness and sharing could make everyone’s day a little brighter, and that’s the shiniest feeling of all. Now close your eyes, little one, and dream of sparkling scales and happy friends.