The Tree of Courage

📖 SYNOPSIS

In a quiet mountain setting, five-year-old Mameta lives with his grandfather. Mameta is easily frightened, especially by the shadow of a giant horse-chestnut tree in their yard. He relies on his grandfather for comfort, even waking him up to accompany him to the outhouse at night. Grandpa tells him a legend: on November 20th, a brave child can see a light in the tree. However, Mameta remains too scared to look.

One night, Grandpa suffers from a severe stomach ache. Forgetting his fears, Mameta bravely runs down the mountain to fetch the doctor. On the return journey, the doctor carries him piggyback, and from this vantage point, Mameta finally sees the light in the tree. Despite this act of bravery, Mameta continues to seek his grandfather's company on subsequent trips to the outhouse. The story emphasizes the importance of inner strength and caring, as Grandpa explains that true courage lies in the heart.