In the hallway of a cheerful little home, Olive the Umbrella stood quietly in the tall umbrella stand, right beside the front door. She was a burst of colour panels of bright red, yellow, blue, and green, with a curved wooden handle polished smooth from years of use. But lately, the days had been sunny and dry, and Olive had not been needed. She dreamed of the sound she loved most: raindrops pattering across her fabric like a gentle drumbeat.
One morning, Olive awoke to the sound of wind whistling through the trees. The clouds outside were heavy and grey, hanging low over the rooftops. A distant rumble of thunder rolled through the sky, and Olive’s handle tingled with excitement. Could today be the day?
Just then, the hallway light flicked on and a little boy came rushing down the hall, already wearing his raincoat and boots. His eyes landed on Olive. “I need you today,” he whispered, reaching out to take her from the stand. Olive’s ribs stretched, and with a happy whoosh! she opened wide, her colourful panels bright against the gloomy sky.
As they stepped outside, the rain poured in fat, joyful drops, bouncing off her surface with a comforting pitter-patter. Olive tilted herself to shield the boy completely, keeping his hair dry and his cheeks warm. They walked together through puddled streets, past people without umbrellas who hurried along. Olive felt proud, standing tall and strong against the wind.
By the time they reached the school gates, the boy looked up at her and smiled. “Thanks, Olive. You’re the best.” And in that moment, Olive realised she didn’t need to be used every day because when her moment came, she was ready to do what she did best.
Moral: Even if you’re not needed all the time, your time to help will come.