

Sara was sad. She had a bad day at school. She did not like the big kids who were mean to her. They laughed at her dress and pulled her hair. She ran home and cried in her room.
Mommy heard Sara crying. She knocked on the door and opened it. She saw Sara on her bed with her teddy bear. "What's wrong, sweetie?" Mommy asked.
"The big kids are mean. They hurt me and make fun of me. I don't want to go to school anymore," Sara said.
Mommy hugged Sara and comforted her. She said, "I'm sorry, sweetie. The big kids are wrong. You are a smart and kind and beautiful girl. I love you very much. And so does your teddy bear. He is your best friend, right?"
Sara nodded and smiled a little. She hugged her teddy bear and said, "Yes, he is. He always listens to me and makes me feel better."
Mommy said, "That's good. You know, I have a surprise for you. Do you want to see it?"
Sara said, "Yes, please."
Mommy took Sara to the kitchen. There was a big cake on the table. It had pink frosting and sprinkles and candles. It said, "Happy Birthday, Sara!"
Sara gasped and clapped her hands. She said, "Wow! Is that for me?"
Mommy said, "Yes, it is. Today is your birthday, remember? You are four years old now. You are a big girl. And this is your treat. You can have a slice of cake and a glass of milk. And later, we can go to the park and play with your friends."
Sara was very happy. She said, "Thank you, Mommy. You are the best. I love you."
Mommy said, "I love you too, sweetie. Happy birthday."
They hugged and kissed and ate the cake. Sara felt much better. She was glad she had a modest but loving mommy and a loyal teddy bear. She was ready to face the big kids tomorrow. She knew she was not alone. She had a family and friends who cared for her. She was a lucky girl.
