Zeena was a goldfish with shimmering scales who loved to sing through the lake. She had many colorful friends like butterflies and hummingbirds who used to race with her as she glided through the clear blue waters everyday. She and her friends used to tease, Tonka, a tortoise for his slowness and his dull shell. They refused to play with him and Tonka was often left to wander alone.
Her mother used to condemn her teasing the baby tortoise. She used to say, “Allah has made everyone beautiful and everyone has their own unique role in the world. We must not be arrogant and tease others.” But Zeena never paid her heed.
One day, while Zeena was playing with her friend, Dhanak, a rainbow-colored butterfly, she swam too close to the lake’s edge and got stuck in weeds! Her friends couldn't help no matter how hard they tried. Tonka who was wandering around caught a sight of Zeena struggling to get out of the weeds, and rushed to help her. With his strong jaws, he chomped the weeds down and set her free. Zeena jumped back into the water and she thanked Allah for sending her help. She quickly realized her mistake. Tonka wasn't slow or useless, he was her savior! She apologized to the baby tortoise and he forgave her. From then on, they became the best of friends who loved to explore the lake together every evening. Zeena learned that she shouldn’t make fun of others and everyone has their own importance because sometimes friends like Tonka, can be of the greatest help.
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