MONDAY- Life Can Be Fair

By Rick Allen

Becky said to Max, “Life is so unfair. We need so many things, and the price of everything is on the rise. I’m not sure how we’re going to keep up.”

Max said, “Becky, I didn’t marry you for things we might have; I didn’t marry you for things we will one day have. And I certainly didn’t marry you, so our life would be fair.” 

Becky said, “But...” Just then, ten-year-old Andy came in and said, “I think fair is that we have each other and that together we have everything we need to enjoy whatever comes our way.”

TUESDAY - The Forgotten Chore

By Rick Allen

Henry, you’re late again!” groaned Miss Maple, tapping her foot.

Henry, a worn rabbit, shuffled his paws. “Lost track of time,” he muttered, gazing at his undone homework.

Around him, classmates chattered, their assignments ready.

Henry sighed, staring at his blank paper. His mind was a playground, never still.

“Self-discipline’s tough, isn’t it?” whispered Olive, a wise old tortoise sitting nearby. Her small, gentle smile warmed him.

“Every day, just write one word before play,” she suggested softly.

Henry nodded. Tomorrow, he’d start anew.

Olive’s simple wisdom felt like the first actual step.

“Thanks, I’ll try that,” he promised.

WEDNESDAY -  The Power Of Being Polite

By Rick Allen

In class, Sam noticed his teacher, Mr. Lee, seemed unusually quiet and tired. Remembering how Mr. Lee always appreciated polite greetings, Sam approached him after the lesson. 

With a respectful tone, he asked, “Mr. Lee, are you okay? You seem a bit different today.” 

Surprised by Sam’s thoughtful approach, Mr. Lee smiled and shared he’d been having a tough day. 

Sam’s polite concern lifted his spirits, showing him his students cared. 

From that day, Sam learned that simple acts of politeness can deeply touch others and brighten their day, teaching him the power of empathy and respect in everyday interactions.

THURSDAY - Ella's Back Porch Lessons

By Rick Allen

It was a soft evening on a porch surrounded by a lush garden. Young Ella absorbed every word as Mrs. Wilson, her neighbor, recounted her adventures traveling across the globe. 

With eyes wide, Ella imagined the distant lands and vibrant cultures her neighbor described. There were stories of legendary people and riding horses into adventures.

Each story, rich with detail and life lessons, deepened Ella's appreciation for the vast world beyond her backyard. 

This quiet evening of storytelling reminded Ella that her curiosity was not just a key but a powerful tool that could unlock endless knowledge and understanding.

FRIDAY - Tommy's Time Tactics

By Rick Allen

Tommy was struggling with his science project, feeling swamped as the deadline loomed. Seeing his son’s frustration, his dad joined him at the desk. They broke down the project into smaller tasks and set a schedule. 

"Self-discipline is about meeting all your responsibilities step by step," his dad explained, guiding Tommy through planning and prioritization. 

Tommy felt more in control and less overwhelmed. He learned the importance of discipline and organization and discovered the personal satisfaction of methodically tackling challenges. 

Thanks to his dad's empowering guidance, Tommy turned anxiety into achievement, mastering his project and an essential life skill.

SATURDAY - Stirring Up Joy

By Rick Allen

Every Saturday, Mia and her mom could be found in the kitchen, preparing dinner together. Their faces lit up with smiles as they chopped vegetables and stirred the pot.

Mia’s mom gently guided her through each step, emphasizing the joy that can be found in cooking, along with a few words about the goodness found in everything they chopped.

“Mia, it’s not just about the food, it’s about the fun we have together,” her mom said with a warm smile.

Mia learned that joyfulness isn’t tied to extravagant moments but can be found in everyday activities shared with loved ones.

SUNDAY - The Garden Splash Lesson

By Rick Allen

Young Max learned about responsibility in a wet and wild way when his mother assigned him the task of watering the new garden. 

She told him to do it every morning. Max thought he would be happier playing in his room. Max turned the hose on full blast, not realizing the power it packed. The water surged, drenching Max and his mom, who was nearby. 

With the unexpected shower, they burst into laughter, turning a chore into an unforgettable splashy adventure. 

Max’s mom hugged him, saying, “Even when we make mistakes, it's important to handle our duties with a smile!"