Little Dumpling wasn't like the other dumplings. All the other dumplings in the basket were perfectly round and smooth. But Little Dumpling? She was a little bit wobbly, a little bit bumpy, and definitely not perfectly round! She worried she wouldn't be chosen for anyone's dinner.
Mama Dumpling always said, "Being different is what makes you special, Little Dumpling!" But Little Dumpling still felt sad. She tried to roll herself into a perfect circle, but she just wobbled even more. She tried to smooth out her bumps, but they just popped right back up.
One evening, a little girl named Lily came to the kitchen with her Papa. Lily looked at all the dumplings. She pointed to a perfectly round one, then another, and another. Little Dumpling hid behind Mama Dumpling, feeling very small.
But then, Lily’s eyes landed on Little Dumpling. "Papa, I want *that* one!" she exclaimed. Papa looked surprised. "That one is a little… different, Lily-bug." Lily giggled. "Yes! She looks like she's smiling!"
Lily carefully picked up Little Dumpling. She didn't mind the wobbles or the bumps. She thought they were wonderful! She dipped Little Dumpling in a little soy sauce and took a big bite. "Mmm! She's the best dumpling ever!"
Little Dumpling felt a warm glow inside. She wasn't perfect, but Lily loved her *because* she was different. Mama Dumpling winked. "See, Little Dumpling? You are perfect just the way you are."
That night, snuggled close to Mama Dumpling, Little Dumpling dreamed of all the happy smiles she would bring. She learned that being wobbly and bumpy wasn't a bad thing at all. It made her special, and it made Lily happy. And that, Little Dumpling realized, was the best feeling in the world.
Close your eyes now, little one. Just like Little Dumpling, you are perfect and loved, exactly as you are. Sweet dreams, and remember, even wobbles can be wonderful!