The Mirror of Friendship

In a peaceful village lived a young boy named Leo. Leo had a kind heart, but he often hung out with a group of boys who loved playing pranks and being unkind to others. One afternoon, the group decided to pull the wings off butterflies in the garden. Leo felt a knot in his stomach, but he didn't want to be left out, so he joined them. That night, Leo couldn't sleep. He felt heavy and unhappy inside. The next morning, his grandfather, a wise man named Silas, noticed Leo's sadness. 'Leo,' Silas said gently, 'your mind is like a garden. If you plant seeds of kindness, you will grow beautiful flowers. But if you walk with those who scatter thorns, your own heart will feel the sting. To keep your soul bright, you must seek the company of those who are good.' Leo realized that his friends were making his heart feel dark. He decided to change. He started spending time with children who loved reading and helping others. As he surrounded himself with goodness, his inner peace returned, and he grew into a man known for his integrity and joy.