The Squirrel and the Heron: A Japanese Tale of Kindness and Help

Brief Description: The Squirrel and the Heron is a story about how good deeds help overcome difficulties. This Japanese folktale teaches children that friendship and helping others make the world a better place.

On the edge of a forest, next to a quiet lake, lived a little squirrel. She loved jumping from tree to tree, collecting nuts, and having fun under the sunny rays. On the other side of the lake lived a heron. Her tall stature and long legs allowed her to move gracefully through the shallow waters in search of fish.

One day, the squirrel noticed that the heron was limping. She stood in one place, barely moving, and her wing was trapped.

— What happened? — asked the squirrel, running closer to the shore. — I injured my wing, — the heron replied softly. — Now I can't fly or catch fish. — Wait here, I'll try to help you! — exclaimed the squirrel.

The squirrel quickly gathered soft moss, branches, and leaves to make a nest for the heron by the shore. Then she brought her some berries and nuts so she could satisfy her hunger.

For several days, the squirrel took care of the heron until she regained her strength. Finally, the wing healed, and the heron was able to fly again. She flapped her wings, rose into the sky, and exclaimed:

— Thank you, squirrel! You saved me. If you ever need help, just call.

Time passed. One day, a strong storm broke out in the forest. The wind broke tree branches, and the squirrel didn't have time to hide. A huge surge of water carried her to the very lake, where she got caught on the roots of a tree but couldn't free herself.

The squirrel cried out:

— Heron! Help me!

The heron, hearing her call, flew immediately. She descended to the water, carefully took the squirrel in her beak, and carried her to the shore. The squirrel was shivering from the cold but was safe and unharmed.

— Thank you, heron. You saved my life, — said the squirrel, cuddling up to her friend. — We must always help each other, — replied the heron. — Because kindness is returned with kindness.

From then on, the squirrel and the heron became inseparable friends. They walked together through the forest, gathered berries, and played by the lake. Their friendship became an example for all the forest's inhabitants, reminding everyone how important it is to help each other in difficult times.

Moral of the Story:

This tale teaches that good deeds always return. Even if you are completely different, friendship and help can unite you.

Discussion Questions:

• Why did the squirrel decide to help the heron despite her size and habits?
• How did the heron thank the squirrel for her help?
• What does this story teach about mutual assistance and friendship?