The Wishing Tree: Anu’s Journey of Kindness and Courage

The Tale of Anu and the Wishing Tree

In a small, sun-drenched village surrounded by lush green fields, Anu lived with her grandmother, Paati. Their days were simple and filled with love, but the weight of poverty loomed over them. Anu often wished she could ease her grandmother’s struggles, as Paati worked tirelessly to keep them fed and clothed.

One evening, as the stars twinkled above their small thatched house, Paati told Anu an ancient tale.

“Anu,” Paati began, her voice filled with wonder, “deep in the forest, there is a magical tree that grants a single wish to those who seek it. But it only listens to those with pure hearts and selfless intentions.”

Anu’s eyes sparkled with curiosity. “Paati, has anyone ever found it?”

“Few have tried, but the journey is not easy,” Paati replied. “The forest tests your spirit, and only the worthy can find the tree.”

That night, Anu lay awake, her mind racing with thoughts. If she could find the tree, she could wish for a better life for Paati and herself. She decided she would embark on the journey.

The Journey Begins
At dawn, Anu packed a small cloth bundle with some rice, a bottle of water, and her grandmother’s blessings. She set off toward the forest, her heart filled with determination.

The forest was dense, its towering trees forming a canopy that filtered the sunlight. The air was cool and fragrant with the scent of wild jasmine. But the deeper Anu ventured, the more unfamiliar and eerie her surroundings became.

As she paused to rest by a stream, she heard a raspy voice.

“Looking for something, little one?”

Startled, Anu looked up to see a crow perched on a nearby branch. Its glossy black feathers gleamed in the sunlight, and its eyes twinkled with mischief.

“Who’s asking?” Anu replied cautiously.

The crow cawed with laughter. “I am Kaka, the cleverest crow in these parts. And I know why you’re here. You seek the Wishing Tree, don’t you?”

Anu’s eyes widened. “You know where it is?”

“Indeed, I do,” Kaka said, puffing out his chest. “But the journey is dangerous. You’ll need my help.”

Anu hesitated. She had heard stories of crows being cunning and untrustworthy, but she had no choice. “Fine,” she said. “Lead the way.”

Trials of the Forest
As they journeyed deeper into the forest, Kaka led Anu through winding paths, over streams, and past thorny bushes. Along the way, they encountered several challenges.

First, they came across a large snake blocking their path. Anu was terrified, but Kaka flew down and distracted the snake, giving Anu enough time to safely cross.

“Stick with me, little one,” Kaka said smugly.

Later, they encountered a clearing filled with shimmering golden flowers. Anu was mesmerized and reached out to pick one, but Kaka squawked loudly.

“Don’t touch those!” he warned. “They’re enchanted. One touch, and you’ll forget why you came here.”

Anu stepped back, grateful for Kaka’s guidance.

The Test of Kindness

As night fell, Anu and Kaka came across an old deer with a wounded leg. The deer looked at them with pleading eyes, unable to move.

“We don’t have time for this,” Kaka said impatiently. “The Wishing Tree is close!”

But Anu knelt beside the deer, tearing a strip from her saree to bandage its leg.

“We can’t leave it like this,” she said firmly.

The deer nuzzled her hand gratefully before disappearing into the forest. Kaka watched silently, a hint of respect in his eyes.

The Wishing Tree
Finally, they reached a clearing bathed in moonlight. At its center stood the Wishing Tree, its branches adorned with glowing leaves that shimmered like stars.

Anu approached the tree, her heart pounding. She closed her eyes and whispered her wish: “I wish for my Paati to have a life of comfort and happiness.”

The tree rustled, its leaves glowing brighter. A warm breeze enveloped Anu, and she felt a sense of peace wash over her.

Kaka, watching from a distance, cawed softly. “You could’ve wished for riches or power, but you didn’t. You truly have a pure heart, little one.”

A Gift in Return
As Anu prepared to leave, the tree’s branches lowered, offering her a single glowing fruit. Kaka explained, “This fruit will fulfill your wish and bring joy to your family.”

Anu thanked the tree and began her journey home, with Kaka flying beside her.

The Return
When Anu returned to her village, she found Paati waiting anxiously. She handed Paati the glowing fruit, explaining its magic. As Paati held it, their small home began to transform. The walls became sturdy, the roof mended itself, and their humble garden blossomed with fruits and flowers.

Tears filled Paati’s eyes. “Anu, you’ve given us a miracle.”

Anu smiled, her heart full of gratitude.

A New Friendship
From that day on, Kaka became a regular visitor. Though he still loved to tease Anu, their bond had grown strong. Together, they often sat under the neem tree, sharing stories of their adventure.

Anu learned that kindness, courage, and selflessness were the true magic in the world. And every time she saw a dandelion or a golden butterfly, she was reminded of the journey that changed her life forever.

The End