Summary

The story revolves around a little girl named Rose who is initially upset about rainy weather that confines her indoors. Her father engages her in a thoughtful conversation, using simple questions to reveal the importance of rain in everyday life. He explains how rain is essential for growing wheat, flowering trees, and providing water for animals, as well as its role in producing food items like bread. Through this dialogue, Rose gains a new perspective on rain's vital role in sustaining nature and life. By the end of their discussion, she shifts from disappointment to appreciation, understanding the broader ecological and practical significance of rain. The story illustrates how parents can use relatable examples to teach children about environmental interconnections and gratitude.

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Rose: Oh no, it’s raining! I don’t want to stay inside all day. It’s so boring!

Father: Well, Rose, were you glad to have bread and butter for breakfast this morning?

Rose: Of course, Dad! I would be really unhappy if I couldn’t have any.

Father: And do you enjoy seeing the flowers and trees grow in our garden?

Rose: Absolutely! I was actually looking forward to going outside to see them. They’re so beautiful.

Father: How about when you see horses, cows, or sheep drinking water from the brook? Does that upset you?

Rose: Dad, you must think I’m heartless! I would never want the hardworking horses, the lovely cows that give us milk, or the cute lambs to always be thirsty.

Father: Don’t you think they’d die without water to drink?

Rose: Yes, that would be terrible!

Father: So, do you think the flowers and trees could grow without water?

Rose: No, they would wither away from the sun’s heat. We wouldn’t have any beautiful flowers to enjoy or make wreaths for Mom.

Father: Rose, what is our bread made of?

Rose: It’s made of flour, which comes from wheat that is ground in a mill.

Father: That’s right. And rain helps the wheat grow, and water powers the mill to grind it into flour. So, are you still unhappy about the rain?

Rose: I didn’t consider all of that, Dad. Now I’m actually glad to see the rain falling.