The Tale of Spring

Artem Mozgovoy

Vasya was running happily down the street. The puddles seemed light and invisible, the sun shone brighter than ever, and the gentle spring breeze brushed against his face, making everything around him feel freer and more delightful. Suddenly, Vasya slipped on a puddle and fell onto the asphalt, scraping his right knee.

“Ouch! What’s this… Ugh, I’ll have to go home and disinfect it”.
“Hello, little boy”.

In the middle of the road Spring herself stood. She smiled shyly, her hands hidden behind her back as if a bit embarrassed, yet joyful about the good weather.

“Why are you smiling? I’m in pain! Stupid puddle…” — Vasya exclaimed.
“Hm, I don’t think the puddle is to blame. You were running without watching your step. And look at you — dressed so lightly! Aren’t you afraid of catching a cold?”

At that moment Vasya realized his nose had started to run.

“Oh no… I really am sick. What should I do?”
“Be more careful”.
“But I was running so fast because I was happy to see you! Because I love spring!”
“That’s sweet to hear, but what kind of love is it if it leaves you limping and ill? That doesn’t sound very good, does it?”
“You’re right, it doesn’t… But why are you so strange? You’re warm, yet cold at the same time. Beautiful, yet covered in water everywhere”.

Spring laughed softly.

“Believe me, when you grow up, you’ll understand that water is a wonderful thing in every sense. If I were too hot, I would become summer. And if the sun disappeared, I would turn into cold winter. I, Spring, teach you how to balance the pleasant and the useful, the warm and the cool, joy and caution. Everything must have its measure, little Vasya. Do you understand me?”
“Yes, I understand. You’re complex and full of contrasts. Maybe that’s why people love you so much, but at the same time they forget to be careful. You enchant them with your green beauty”.
“Yes, I know. But that’s the lesson. To make plans for summer, and to remember winter — to remember the cold and to rejoice in the warmth that has arrived”.
“I’m glad it’s warm now. Very glad”.
“Then get up, clean your wound and drink some tea. Outside your window, the birds are singing beautifully. Trust me, you’ll enjoy it!”

Spring and Vasya went together home, and the weather was wonderful, just a bit cloudy.