The Mango Tree Promise

In the courtyard of Dadi’s old home stood a grand mango tree, its branches stretching wide like open arms. Every summer, it bore sweet, golden mangoes that made the whole neighborhood’s mouths water.

One breezy afternoon, Chotu and Chutki sat under the tree, swinging their legs and eyeing the green mangoes swaying above. “Dadi,” Chutki asked, “When will they turn yellow? I can’t wait!”

Dadi smiled, adjusting her glasses. “Baccho, achhi cheezon ka mazaa tabhi aata hai jab hum unka intezaar karte hain. Jaldi kiye toh na mithaas milti hai, na khushi.” She went on to tell them about a promise she made to this very tree when she was their age — never to pluck a mango before it was ready, no matter how tempting.

Weeks passed. The children resisted the urge, even when their friends tried to sneak one. And when the mangoes finally ripened, their sweetness felt like a reward for all the waiting.

As they enjoyed the first juicy bite, Dadi chuckled, “Dekha? Patience is like sunshine — it makes everything grow better, even your happiness.”

And just like that, under the shade of that mango tree, the children learned that promises kept and patience practiced can make life’s rewards even sweeter.