The Whispering Willow
by
Thomas
A story about Big feelings
for your 4th Grader.
Deep in the heart of the kingdom, there stood a magnificent willow tree whose leaves seemed to whisper secrets to anyone who passed by. Even on calm mornings, its branches swayed gently as if touched by an invisible breeze. Beneath this shelter of soft green shade lay Princess Zoombella’s special place, where she often escaped to watch the colorful butterflies dance among the wildflowers.
Princess Zoombella knelt in the grass, breathing in the sweet smell of dew. She reached out her hand, and a bright yellow butterfly fluttered onto her fingertips. Shielding her friend from the morning sun, Princess Zoombella smiled and whispered, “You’re safe here.”
Suddenly, Princess Zoombella noticed that the butterflies flew in frantic circles, their wings beating faster than usual. She leaned closer and overheard worried chirps that spoke of a powerful storm on the way. Her heart pounded, because she had never forgotten the night thunder shook the castle windows.
The swirling pattern on a butterfly’s wing seemed to pulse with urgency, as if the storm clouds were already approaching. Tiny raindrops began to dot the edges of the meadow, and the wind hissed through the willow’s leaves with a warning voice. Princess Zoombella felt a knot of worry twist inside her stomach.
Hurrying back to the castle, Princess Zoombella found her father, The King, studying a map in the great hall. “Father,” she began softly, “the butterflies are alarmed about a storm. I’m frightened it might be as loud and fierce as before.” The King’s face grew concerned, and he knelt beside his daughter to comfort her.
That afternoon, Princess Zoombella sought out her mother, The Queen, in the peaceful royal garden. “I’m trying to be brave,” Princess Zoombella said, her voice trembling. The Queen wrapped her in a gentle hug. “It’s normal to feel afraid,” The Queen reassured her. “But we can prepare together and find ways to stay calm.”
Evening arrived, bringing gray clouds that clawed across the sky. Thunder rumbled in the distance, shaking little droplets of rain from the leaves. Princess Zoombella remembered The Queen’s suggestion: sometimes counting slowly or thinking of a favorite place can help big feelings feel smaller.
Lightning split the horizon, and Princess Zoombella ran back to the meadow where the butterflies had gathered under wide flower petals. “I’m here,” she called above the rumbling sky, “but I’m still scared!” Although her voice shook, she offered her hand to a shivering butterfly. She closed her eyes and began counting each breath, just like The Queen had taught her.