One day little Hammy the hamster discovered a whole patch of his favorite treats: gummy leaves growing on the young maple trees! It was early spring, and the gummy leaves weren't supposed to appear for another two weeks, so the little guy was overjoyed.
This will be my secret! — decided Hammy. — My sweet stash!
For three days the hamster feasted on the gummy leaves and told no one about his discovery, not even his best friend, the squirrel Nutsy.
You've seemed so distracted lately, Hammy, always rushing off somewhere, — said Nutsy one day.
I've been helping Mom around the house, — lied Hammy. — Sorry, I have to go.
Alright, see you later!
On the fourth day of overindulging, Hammy's tummy ached, which was no surprise with so much candy! He took the medicine Mom gave him, his tummy felt better, and he decided to go for a walk. He wasn't in the mood for anything. Soon he ran into Nutsy.
Hi! Why are you so sad? — asked his friend.
Oh, I just don't feel like doing anything.
Hammy, — Nutsy smiled, — I know how to cheer you up! I just found something today... But never mind, come along, you'll see it for yourself.
Hammy was surprised and confused when his friend led him to his gummy-leaf patch. He had been coming here for three days and told no one, and she had found it on her very first day and told him!
You're sharing such a secret with me? — Hammy asked in surprise.
Of course, — Nutsy said honestly, — you're my friend, and friends should share!
Hammy felt terribly ashamed.
Nutsy, I'm sorry. I found this patch before you did, but I didn't tell anyone about it because I was greedy. I didn't want to share with anybody...
Oh, Hammy, Hammy, — Nutsy shook her head, — you know that greed never leads to anything good.
Yes, I know, — sighed the hamster. — My tummy hurts from all that greed too! Let's tell all our friends about this patch, Nutsy! It's big, there's enough candy for everyone!
Let's do it! — Nutsy smiled. — What a wonderful idea!
Yes, dear children, greed never leads to anything good, and sweets taste far better when shared with friends! Take care of your teeth and tummies, and don't be greedy, my little friends!
