The Golden Dragon and the Crane – A Chinese Fairy Tale about Friendship and Mutual Assistance

Short Description: This Chinese fairy tale tells the story of a golden dragon and a crane who, despite their differences, became friends and helped the animals by the lake. The story teaches children about friendship, mutual understanding, and kindness.

At the edge of a large lake, surrounded by green hills, lived a golden dragon. His scales shimmered like the sun, and his eyes reflected the light of the water. The dragon was known for his wisdom, but the animals feared him because of his enormous size and intimidating appearance. The dragon loved watching the lake and listening to the birds' songs, but his loneliness always weighed heavily on him.

One day, a flock of cranes appeared over the lake. They descended to the water to rest after a long flight. One of them, the most curious, noticed the golden dragon quietly lying on the stones by the water. Instead of being afraid, the crane cautiously approached, brushing his beak over the water as if to show that he was not scared. He said, "You are alone here, golden dragon. Why do you not interact with the other animals?"

The dragon lifted his head and replied, "I fear I scare them. When I approach, they flee. I do not want to harm anyone, but no one understands that I only seek friendship."

The crane pondered. "You seem kind," he said. "Let me tell the other animals about you. Perhaps they will understand that they have nothing to fear."

The next day, the crane brought several deer and rabbits to the lake. At first, they watched the dragon cautiously, but the crane reassured them: "The dragon wants to be your friend. He is wise and kind. Give him a chance to prove it."

The dragon did not get discouraged. When the deer were thirsty and the water at their spot by the lake had dried up, he used his strength to clear the riverbed, allowing water to flow back into their meadows. He helped the rabbits find safe places to hide from predators. The animals saw that the dragon truly wanted to help and no longer feared him.

From then on, the crane and the dragon became best friends. Together, they cared for the animals: the dragon brought water, protected them from storms, and helped reforest the woods, while the crane delivered messages and ensured that all animals lived in harmony. Their friendship became an example for all the residents around the lake.

Moral of the Story:

• Do not judge others by their appearance. True kindness is always within.
• Friendship helps overcome fears and differences.
• Together, we can make the world a better place.

Questions for Discussion with Children:

1. Why were the animals initially afraid of the dragon?
2. How did the crane help the other animals understand that the dragon was kind?
3. What does this story teach us?