The Paper Boat

Author: Avery Collins

Sophie sat by the pond, folding a small paper boat. She drew a tiny flag and wrote her name on the side. “This will sail far,” she whispered.

The wind lifted the boat, and Sophie watched as it wobbled across the water. Suddenly, a gust pushed it into the reeds. She ran to retrieve it, but another child’s paper boat floated past hers, and they both laughed.

Sophie realized the pond was big enough for many boats, many dreams. Her little paper boat might not reach the other side, but it had taught her patience, hope, and a quiet kind of joy.