Lila, a thoughtful girl with curious eyes, watches her classmates from a nearby swing. She notices a huddle of children glancing toward another girl, Maya, who sits alone with her sketchbook. The murmur of whispers grows louder, and Lila senses the sting of judgment in the air.

Sam, the tallest of the group, snickers loudly. "Did you see what Maya wore today? She always looks so weird," he mocks, eliciting a round of giggles. Lila swings her feet to the ground and stands, her face set with quiet resolve as she approaches the group.

Maya[/@ch_2]'s sketchbook. The group falls silent as Lila speaks, her voice clear but gentle.] "Don't talk about others or look down on them or judge them wrongfully," she says, her gaze steady. The words seem to hang in the air, heavier than the laughter that preceded them. Some children shift uncomfortably, glancing at one another.

Lila[/@ch_1]. The sun emerges from behind the clouds, bathing the scene in warm light once more.] Emily, a shy girl with a nervous smile, steps forward. "I guess we don't really know her at all," she admits softly. Lila nods, encouraging the group to consider their actions.

Maya[/@ch_2] glances up as Lila approaches.] "I like your drawings, Maya," Lila says with a smile. "Thank you," Maya replies, her face brightening as she closes her sketchbook and stands to walk inside alongside her new friend.

Lila[/@ch_1]'s words lingers. Sunlight glints off the swings, and in the distance, the laughter that returns sounds softer, kinder.] The children carry a new understanding with them as they file back into the school, their hearts a little lighter and their judgments a little slower. Sometimes, the bravest thing to do is to speak up for kindness, and sometimes, the smallest voice can change the tone of an entire day.