LiLi sat cross-legged by the window, her cheeks rosy as she gazed at the blue sky beyond. The scent of warm toast drifted from the kitchen, where Aunty Vee hummed a cheerful tune. The gentle clinks of cups and plates mixed with the distant chirping of sparrows, creating a peaceful start to the day.
"Aunty Vee, why do we always have to wash our hands before breakfast?"
Aunty Vee, her silver hair tied back with a polka-dot scarf, smiled kindly at LiLi. She guided LiLi to the sink, rolling up her sleeves with a flourish. Aunty Vee (Aunt; wise, gentle, and patient) began to share her wisdom.
"Washing our hands keeps us healthy, LiLi. Imagine all the tiny germs we can’t see, hiding after we play or touch things. When we wash with soap, we send those germs away and protect ourselves and others from getting sick."
LiLi[/@ch_1]'s bedroom comes into view—colorful drawings taped to the walls, a bed with a jumble of blankets, and toys peeking out from under the dresser.]
LiLi tiptoed into her room, glancing at the scattered blocks and doll clothes. Her brow furrowed as she considered the mess, while Aunty Vee peeked in from the hallway, her eyes twinkling.
"A clean room is like a fresh start for your mind," Aunty Vee encouraged. "When you tidy your space, you can find your favorite things more easily, and it feels wonderful to come home to a neat place. Let’s turn cleaning into a game—how fast can you put away your toys?"
LiLi sat at the table, her small hands folded in her lap. Across from her, Aunty Vee poured tea, her face warm with affection. The air carried a sense of calm, as if time slowed for their special chat.
"Being polite is like giving a little gift to someone’s heart," Aunty Vee explained. "When we say 'please,' 'thank you,' or 'excuse me,' we show others that we care about their feelings. It’s a simple way to spread kindness everywhere you go."
LiLi joined her friends beneath the leafy trees, her heart full of Aunty Vee’s reminders. She offered a toy to a shy classmate, remembered to say “thank you” when someone shared a snack, and led the clean-up after playtime. The garden echoed with giggles and warm words, as if kindness bloomed among the flowers.
LiLi curled up beside Aunty Vee, a storybook open between them. The day’s lessons lingered in the quiet air, wrapping them in comfort and love.
"Aunty Vee, I think your reminders made today extra special," "That’s the magic of small things, LiLi. When we care for ourselves, our homes, and each other, every day feels brighter. And you, my dear, are a little light in this world."
