Archisha Roy, a student of fourth grade, shares a touching tale about Princess Isabella, who discovers that true happiness stems from kindness and love, not from wealth.
Once upon a time, there was a princess named Isabella who lived in a grand castle atop a hill. Despite her beauty and wealth, Isabella had a reputation for being extremely rude to everyone around her. She believed her riches made her superior and felt no need to treat others kindly. This attitude left the castle’s staff, as well as the people in the kingdom, very sad and disheartened.
One bright morning, a fairy named Seraphina appeared in the castle. With a gentle voice, she addressed the princess, “Princess Isabella, your behavior has cast a shadow over the hearts of everyone in the kingdom. If you change your ways and show kindness, you will be loved by all.”
Princess Isabella scoffed, “I believe my behavior is perfectly fine. I see no reason to change. I am rich, and their feelings do not concern me.”
Seraphina shook her head sadly and replied, “Your wealth does not excuse bad manners. True happiness comes from love and kindness. If you continue on this path, you will find yourself alone, with no friends to share your wealth or happiness with.”
The princess huffed, “I am a rich girl and I don’t have to see that everyone is sad or happy.”
Seeing the princess’s stubbornness, Seraphina warned her, “There will come a day when your riches will not comfort you. You will find yourself alone, and only then will you realize the importance of kindness and love.”
That night, Princess Isabella couldn’t sleep. The fairy’s words echoed in her mind, and for the first time, she felt a pang of guilt. The thought of being alone frightened her. She remembered the sad faces of her servants and the villagers.
The next morning, Princess Isabella sought out the fairy. “Seraphina,” she began, her voice trembling, “I am sorry for my behavior. I realize now how my actions have hurt others. Please, guide me on how to change.”
With a warm smile, Seraphina said, “The first step is to genuinely care for others, regardless of your wealth. Show them respect and love, and you will see how their happiness will bring you true joy.”
From that day on, Princess Isabella made a conscious effort to be kind and considerate. She greeted her servants with warmth, helped the villagers with their needs, and listened to their problems with empathy. Slowly, the sadness that once enveloped the castle lifted, replaced by an atmosphere of joy and harmony.
Princess Isabella found herself surrounded by friends who loved her not for her wealth, but for her newfound kindness. She realized that Seraphina was right—true happiness came from the love and respect of those around her.
And so, Princess Isabella and her kingdom lived happily ever after, bound together by kindness and love.
