It was a quiet morning in the forest hut, and little monkeys Pupu and Poki were just waking up. The sunlight peeked through the bamboo window, and the scent of breakfast lingered in the air. Normally, their mom would greet them with a cheerful smile and open arms, ready for cuddles and playtime. But today felt different.
When Pupu peeked into the kitchen, he saw their mom sitting silently on a small wooden stool, her eyes half-closed, and her shoulders slumped. She looked so tired, barely able to hold her spoon as she stirred the porridge.
Poki came in behind him and noticed too. “Mom?” he called gently, but she only looked up with a weak smile and nodded.
The two young monkeys exchanged a worried glance. Their mother, who always worked so hard to take care of them—gathering fruit, cleaning, cooking, and playing—suddenly seemed worn out, as if all her energy had been drained.
Pupu quietly tiptoed to her side and placed his tiny hand on hers. “Are you okay, Mama?” he whispered.
Their mom patted his head lovingly. “I’m just a little tired, sweethearts. I’ve been busy, but I’ll be fine.”
But her words didn’t make Pupu or Poki feel any better. They could feel her exhaustion, and it hurt their hearts. They didn’t want to see their mom like this—not when she gave them so much love every day.
Determined to help, the two little monkeys got to work. Poki began sweeping the floor with a palm leaf, while Pupu started folding the little towels she had washed the night before. Then, they picked fresh mangoes from the tree and brought her a small plate.
Their mom watched them with teary eyes. She didn’t say much, but her smile grew a little brighter.
That afternoon, instead of asking for stories or games, Pupu and Poki curled up next to their mom and let her rest. Their love spoke louder than words. Sometimes, even the smallest hearts understand when someone they love needs care too.
