A story about listening adapted from THE BAD MANNERS OF POLITE PEOPLE from Penguin Persons & Peppermints by Walter Prichard Eaton

Once upon a wacky and wild time, there was a young whirlwind of a girl named Candace who adored throwing parties. 

She would spend days planning the perfect celebration. She knew how to rock the decorations. Colorful streamers, balloons and handmade garlands danced in the breeze. She’d have crunchy veggies and juicy fruits arranged to look like adorable animals and mini-sandwiches that seemed to disappear as soon as she set them out. To wash it all down, she’d offer icy-cold lemonade and fizzy fruit punch, each glass adorned with a cute, twirly straw.

And always cupcakes with swirls of colorful frosting.

When her friends arrived, she greeted them with a huge grin and overflowing excitement, saying, “I’m so happy you’re here!”

But here’s the kicker: Candace was the queen of the chatty fly-by. This little quirk made her parties a bit peculiar. Something just didn’t seem quite right. With all the flitting about in a flutter, wanting to make sure all her guests felt welcomed and happy, she neglected to stop and listen.

You see, Candace had a habit of running off whenever one of her friends started telling a tale. It wasn’t that she meant to be rude; she was just so excited and full of energy running around, making sure everyone had a blast. Candace had a secret superpower—a magical ability to make everyone feel special and happy, except when it came to listening to their stories. Her friends would be left mid-sentence, feeling a bit deflated like a balloon losing its air.

On Candace’s 10th birthday, as laughter buzzed and the party was in full swing, something magical happened. A wise old Gnome named Grumblesnort appeared in the garden. Now, this Gnome had seen it all – from mischievous fairies to talking animals – so he knew a thing or two about the importance of listening. He twinkled with a mysterious glow and carried a tiny silver bell.

He watched Candace flitting around, interrupting everyone, and shook his head knowingly. Ringing his bell, he gathered all the kids together. Grumblesnort cleared his throat and said, “Allow me to spin you a yarn, my young partygoers.”

“In a land far beyond the rainbow, there lived a young girl named Melody. She had a magical gift that had nothing to do with casting spells or waving a wand. Her power was in her ears!”

“Ears? You must be kidding!” one of them exclaimed in a hushed, playful tone as they all tried to stifle their laughter.

The Gnome continued, “Indeed, her ears were extraordinary. Melody listened with such attention and care that everyone around her felt truly heard and understood. Listening to someone’s story, really hearing them, is like sprinkling magic dust on their words. It gives them value and makes the speaker feel important. It makes them feel special and loved. Melody gave her full attention to her friends, laughing at their jokes and asking questions about their lives.”

The children nodded in understanding of the Gnome’s message. Listening intently from behind a mountain of presents, Candace felt a pang of guilt. It hit her like a rogue water balloon – she’d been so busy trying to be the perfect party princess that she’d forgotten the whole point of having friends in the first place.

The Gnome concluded his tale with a flourish, “So, my dear Candace and all you wonderful partygoers, remember that true magic lies not only in the excitement of a birthday bash but also in the power of listening. Give the gift of your attention, and you will create friendships that sparkle brighter than any sprinkle-covered cake!”

Candace’s eyes went wide as saucers. She turned to her friends and said, “From now on, I promise to be a better friend and listener.” Her friends cheered!

The wise old Gnome’s story had worked its magic, and with his mission accomplished, he vanished in a puff of glitter.

So, thanks to the Gnome’s wisdom tale, Candace and her friends discovered the secret to creating the most magical parties ever.

It wasn’t about the razzle-dazzle but showering each other with attention, kindness, and a dash of silly fun. The children realized that the greatest gift they could give one another was their undivided attention, for everlasting friendships are born in that simple act.

Truly listening is the secret ingredient to a friendship. So, the next time you’re tempted to flit away mid-story, remember the wise old Gnome and sweet Candace and give the gift of your listening ears! Sweet dreams, and may your friendships always sparkle!

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