The Never-Give-Up Squirrel

In a dense jungle, there lived a small squirrel named Tupai. He was known as the smallest and weakest among his siblings. However, Tupai had a big spirit. His grandmother, Old Squirrel, often told stories about their ancestors who once saved the forest from drought by digging small holes to collect water. "We squirrels are small, but we can do great things," Grandma said one day. From then on, Tupai was determined to become like his ancestors.

A long dry season hit the forest. Rivers dried up, fruits became scarce, and the animals began to starve. Tupai saw sadness on his friends' faces. Rabbit, Mouse Deer, and Sparrow sat listlessly under a big tree. "I must do something," Tupai muttered. He remembered Grandma's story about water holes. So Tupai started digging the ground with his tiny claws. The soil was hard and rocky, but Tupai did not give up. He dug every day from morning to night, even though his claws bled.

Seeing Tupai's persistence, Mouse Deer approached. "Tupai, you're hurt. Stop," Mouse Deer said gently. Tupai replied, "I can't stop. If I stop, we will all die of thirst. I believe there is water beneath this ground." Mouse Deer was touched. "Let me help you," he said. Mouse Deer dug with his antlers. Seeing that, Rabbit and Sparrow also joined in. They worked together, taking turns digging and removing the soil.

Suddenly, Tupai's claws touched something wet. "Water!" he shouted. The deeper they dug, the more water gushed out. A small spring appeared! All the animals rejoiced. They thanked Tupai. "Without your determination, we would not have found this water," said Mouse Deer. Tupai smiled, "This is thanks to our cooperation. Each of us has a role."

Since then, the forest became fertile again. Tupai became an example that persistence and cooperation can overcome difficulties. And every dry season, the animals always remember Tupai the Never-Give-Up Squirrel.