In a lush orchard, an energetic squirrel named Chippu and a little mouse named Minu lived as good friends. The orchard was famous for its grain storehouse, which was always filled with delicious seeds and dried fruits.
One sunny afternoon, Minu the mouse spotted a wooden crate near the storehouse. Although the lid was tightly shut, there was a tiny gap at the corner. Driven by hunger and curiosity, Minu squeezed through the small opening. Inside, she found a mountain of golden grains. Minu began to eat, and the grains were so tasty that she couldn't stop herself. She ate and ate until her tummy became round and tight like a small balloon.
When Minu tried to wiggle back through the tiny gap, she realized she was stuck! Her belly was now much too large to fit through the hole. She felt scared and trapped in the dark crate.
Just then, Chippu the squirrel scurried by and saw Minu struggling. Instead of laughing, Chippu felt concerned. "Oh Minu! What have you done? You were so greedy that you ate far more than you needed," Chippu said. Minu whimpered, "I just couldn't stop, Chippu! Now I'm stuck!"
Chippu wisely advised, "There is no way to force yourself out. You must wait patiently until your tummy goes back to its normal size. Only then will the hole be big enough for you again."
Minu stayed very still and waited through the night. By the next morning, her tummy had shrunk, and she easily slid out of the crate. She felt a great sense of relief. Minu went to Chippu and said, "Thank you for looking out for me and teaching me a lesson. I promise not to be greedy again."
From that day on, Minu always enjoyed her food in moderation.
Moral
Greed leads to trouble; moderation is key.
