🍎 An Apple Tree and Our Parents
Once upon a time, there was a huge apple tree. A little boy used to come and play near the tree. He searched for juicy apples, played around the trunk, and rested under its shade.
The tree was overjoyed by the boy’s presence. But one day, the boy came with a sad face.
“Come on, little boy! Play with me,” said the tree.
“I’m no longer a kid,” the boy replied. “I need toys. I need money to buy them.”
“I don’t have money,” said the tree gently. “But you can pick my apples and sell them.”
The boy grabbed all the apples and left happily. He sold them, bought toys, and didn’t return for a long time.
Seasons passed. One morning, the boy—now a grown man—returned.
“Come and play with me,” said the tree.
“I can’t play. I need a house for my family. Can you help me?”
“Cut my branches and build your house,” said the tree.
The man did so and left. The tree was happy to help.
Years later, the man returned again.
“I’m tired. I want to sail and relax. Can you give me a boat?”
“Use my trunk to build your boat,” said the tree.
The man cut the trunk and sailed away. The tree was now just a stump.
After many years, the man came back—old and weary.
“I’m sorry,” said the tree. “I have nothing left to give.”
“No problem,” said the old man. “I just need a place to rest.”
“Come, sit with me. Old roots are the best place to lean on,” said the tree.
The old man sat down. The tree was happy—and smiled with tears.
🌱 Life Lessons:
- Parents give without expecting anything in return.
- True love is sacrifice and patience.
- We must remember those who stood by us through every stage of life.
- Don’t wait until it’s too late to show gratitude to those who love you.
🧠 Educational Questions:
✨ Comprehension Questions:
- Who used to visit the apple tree in the beginning?
- What did the boy ask for when he grew older?
- How did the tree help the man build a house?
- What did the man do with the tree’s trunk?
- What did the old man ask for in the end?
🔍 Critical Thinking Questions:
- Was the tree truly happy even after losing everything?
- Why did the man only return when he needed something?
- Do you think the tree represents someone in your life? Who?
- Do we truly appreciate those who sacrifice for us?
👣 Real-Life Connection Questions:
- Is there someone in your life who gives like the tree?
- How can you show gratitude to your parents or caregivers?
- Do you believe real love means giving without expecting anything back?
🎨 Fun Activities for Kids:
- 🎨 Draw the apple tree in different stages of the story.
- 📝 Write a thank-you letter to your parents or someone who cares for you.
- 🎭 Act out the story as a short play with roles: tree, boy, man, narrator.
- 📦 Create a memory journal titled “People Like the Tree in My Life.”