In the small village of Little Hill lived a generous girl named Lena. Her home was on a quiet street, but everyone knew her because of her bright, golden lantern.
In the cozy village of Little Hill, kind-hearted Lena lights her golden lantern every night to guide her neighbors safely home. One stormy evening, she shares her flame again and again until her own light fades to nothing. The next night, she opens her door to a breathtaking surprise: the whole village returns with lamps of every color, proving that a light shared never truly dims—it only grows brighter. A heartwarming tale of generosity and the magic of giving.
In the small village of Little Hill lived a generous girl named Lena. Her home was on a quiet street, but everyone knew her because of her bright, golden lantern.
Every night, Lena would light the wick and place the lantern on her windowsill. It was a beacon that sent a warm, friendly glow out into the gathering darkness.
The light wasn't just pretty; it was helpful! It guided the baker, Mr. Otto, home after a long day of making bread. It helped Mrs. Pella, the nurse, find her way down the winding path.
One evening, the wind howled like a grumpy bear. It pushed and pulled at the clouds, and the darkness felt extra heavy and cold.
*Knock, knock!* A shy little girl stood at Lena’s door. “Lena,” she whispered, “could I just borrow a tiny bit of your light? My small candle blew out, and I’m scared to walk home.”
Lena happily shared her light, letting the little girl light her small candle from the golden flame. She shared the light again with the baker, and then with the nurse, and then with others.
She shared and shared and shared. Her heart felt warm, but by midnight, the bright, golden lantern was so very dim. Its light was just a small, sputtering spark.
*Pooof.* It went out. Lena sighed, tucked the cold lantern into bed, and climbed into her own. She was a little sad to have no light, but she didn’t regret helping everyone find their way.
The next night, Lena heard a *thump-tap-thump* at her door. She opened it, and gasped! The villagers were gathered, and each held a lamp—blue, orange, green, tiny candles, and glowing jars!
They placed all their lights together around her windowsill. A rainbow of warmth and color filled Lena’s home! She realized: "A shared light becomes even brighter."