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The Little Fir Tree – CBSE NCERT Study Resources

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The Little Fir Tree

Study Materials

4th

4th - English (Santoor)

The Little Fir Tree

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Overview of the Chapter

The chapter The Little Fir Tree is a heartwarming story from the CBSE Grade 4 English textbook. It revolves around a small fir tree that feels unhappy with its life and wishes to grow taller like the other trees around it. The story explores themes of contentment, patience, and the beauty of being unique.

Key Theme: The story teaches children the importance of appreciating what they have and understanding that everyone grows at their own pace.

Summary of the Story

The little fir tree is sad because it is small and cannot provide shade like the taller trees. It envies the other trees for their height and usefulness. However, as time passes, the little fir tree remains small but becomes a favorite among children who decorate it during Christmas. The tree realizes that being small has its own advantages and learns to embrace its uniqueness.

Characters in the Story

  • The Little Fir Tree: The protagonist who initially feels unhappy about being small but later finds joy in its uniqueness.
  • Tall Trees: The other trees in the forest that the little fir tree admires for their height.
  • Children: They decorate the little fir tree during Christmas, making it feel special.

Moral of the Story

The story conveys that everyone has their own strengths and should not compare themselves to others. Happiness comes from accepting oneself and finding joy in one's uniqueness.

Important Lesson: The little fir tree's journey teaches children the value of patience, self-acceptance, and the joy of being appreciated for who they are.

Key Vocabulary

  • Fir Tree
  • Envy
  • Contentment
  • Unique
  • Decorated

All Question Types with Solutions – CBSE Exam Pattern

Explore a complete set of CBSE-style questions with detailed solutions, categorized by marks and question types. Ideal for exam preparation, revision and practice.

Very Short Answer (1 Mark) – with Solutions (CBSE Pattern)

These are 1-mark questions requiring direct, concise answers. Ideal for quick recall and concept clarity.

Question 1:
What did the little fir tree wish for at the beginning of the story?
Answer:

The little fir tree wished to have green leaves like the other trees because it felt sad about its needles.

Question 2:
Why did the little fir tree feel unhappy in the forest?
Answer:

The little fir tree felt unhappy because it compared itself to other trees with broad leaves and thought its needles were not beautiful.

Question 3:
Who took the little fir tree away from the forest?
Answer:

The little fir tree was taken away by woodcutters who chopped it down for use as a Christmas tree.

Question 4:
How did the little fir tree feel when it was decorated?
Answer:

The little fir tree felt happy and proud when it was decorated with lights, toys, and tinsel for Christmas.

Question 5:
What happened to the little fir tree after Christmas?
Answer:

After Christmas, the little fir tree was thrown away because its needles had dried up and it was no longer useful.

Question 6:
What lesson did the little fir tree learn at the end of the story?
Answer:

The little fir tree learned to appreciate what it had instead of always wishing for something else.

Question 7:
Name one decoration used on the little fir tree.
Answer:

One decoration used on the little fir tree was shiny tinsel.

Question 8:
Why couldn't the little fir tree enjoy its time as a Christmas tree for long?
Answer:

The little fir tree couldn't enjoy its time for long because its needles dried up quickly after being cut from the forest.

Question 9:
What did the other trees in the forest have that the fir tree wanted?
Answer:

The other trees had broad green leaves, which the fir tree wished to have instead of its needles.

Question 10:
Where was the little fir tree placed after it was decorated?
Answer:

The little fir tree was placed inside a house as a Christmas tree.

Question 11:
What made the little fir tree realize its mistake?
Answer:

The little fir tree realized its mistake when it saw how temporary its happiness was after being cut and discarded.

Question 12:
What is the main theme of the story 'The Little Fir Tree'?
Answer:

The main theme is being content with what you have instead of always desiring something else.

Very Short Answer (2 Marks) – with Solutions (CBSE Pattern)

These 2-mark questions test key concepts in a brief format. Answers are expected to be accurate and slightly descriptive.

Question 1:
Why did the little fir tree feel sad in the beginning of the story?
Answer:

The little fir tree felt sad because it had needle-like leaves instead of beautiful broad leaves like other trees. It also couldn’t enjoy the seasons changing like deciduous trees.

Question 2:
What did the little fir tree wish for when it saw the other trees being cut?
Answer:

The little fir tree wished to grow tall quickly so it could also be cut and taken away like the other trees, thinking it would bring happiness.

Question 3:
How did the little fir tree finally become happy?
Answer:

The little fir tree became happy when it was decorated with lights and ornaments during Christmas, realizing its unique beauty and purpose.

Question 4:
Name two things the little fir tree was decorated with during Christmas.
Answer:
  • Shining lights
  • Colorful ornaments
Question 5:
Why couldn’t the little fir tree enjoy the seasons like other trees?
Answer:

The little fir tree was an evergreen tree, so its leaves (needles) stayed green all year. It didn’t change colors or shed leaves like deciduous trees.

Question 6:
What lesson did the little fir tree learn by the end of the story?
Answer:

The little fir tree learned to appreciate itself and understand that everyone has their own special qualities and purpose.

Question 7:
Who took the little fir tree home during Christmas?
Answer:

A kind family took the little fir tree home to decorate it as their Christmas tree.

Question 8:
Why did the little fir tree regret its wish after being cut?
Answer:

The little fir tree regretted its wish because after being cut, it dried up and was thrown away, realizing it was happier when it was alive and growing.

Question 9:
What did the little fir tree wish for when it saw the other trees being cut down?
Answer:

The little fir tree wished to be cut down and taken away like the other trees, hoping to become something special like a Christmas tree or a ship's mast.

Question 10:
Name two things the little fir tree was jealous of in other trees.
Answer:
  • Other trees had broad, green leaves that changed color in autumn.
  • They bore fruits and flowers, which the fir tree couldn't.
Question 11:
Who decorated the little fir tree and why?
Answer:

The children and their family decorated the little fir tree to celebrate Christmas, making it the centerpiece of their festivities.

Question 12:
Why couldn’t the little fir tree grow apples like the apple tree?
Answer:

The little fir tree couldn’t grow apples because it was a coniferous tree with needle-like leaves, unlike the deciduous apple tree which bears fruits.

Question 13:
What happened to the little fir tree after Christmas?
Answer:

After Christmas, the little fir tree was planted in the garden where it continued to grow, now proud of its identity as a fir tree.

Short Answer (3 Marks) – with Solutions (CBSE Pattern)

These 3-mark questions require brief explanations and help assess understanding and application of concepts.

Question 1:
How did the little fir tree help the birds during winter?
Answer:

The little fir tree helped the birds by providing shelter with its thick, green needles. The birds nestled in its branches to stay warm and safe from the cold winter winds.

Question 2:
Describe one unique feature of the little fir tree that made it different from other trees.
Answer:

The little fir tree had evergreen needles that stayed green all year round, unlike other trees that shed leaves in autumn. This feature helped it provide shelter and remain beautiful even in harsh winters.

Question 3:
How did the little fir tree react when it saw children decorating it during Christmas?
Answer:

The little fir tree felt joyful and proud when children decorated it with lights and ornaments. It realized its importance and finally felt appreciated for its unique qualities.

Question 4:
Why do you think the little fir tree was chosen for Christmas decoration instead of other trees?
Answer:

The little fir tree was chosen because its evergreen nature and sturdy branches made it perfect for holding decorations. Its ability to stay green in winter symbolized hope and joy during the festive season.

Question 5:
Why did the little fir tree feel unhappy in the beginning of the story?
Answer:

The little fir tree felt unhappy because it was small and had needle-like leaves, unlike other trees with broad, beautiful leaves. It envied the other trees for their appearance and wished to grow faster to be like them.

Question 6:
How did the little fir tree help the birds during winter?
Answer:

The little fir tree provided shelter to birds with its dense branches and needle-like leaves, which stayed green even in cold weather. Birds could nest and stay warm under its cover.

Question 7:
Describe one way the little fir tree was different from the other trees in the forest.
Answer:

The little fir tree had sharp, needle-like leaves that stayed green all year, while other trees had broad leaves that fell in autumn. This made it stand out and remain useful in winter.

Question 8:
Why was the little fir tree chosen for decoration during Christmas?
Answer:

The little fir tree was chosen because its evergreen leaves and strong branches made it perfect for holding decorations. Its ability to stay green in winter symbolized hope and joy during the festive season.

Question 9:
How did the little fir tree's feelings change from the beginning to the end of the story?
Answer:

Initially, the little fir tree felt sad and jealous of other trees. Later, it understood its unique qualities and felt proud and happy when it became useful and admired during Christmas.

Question 10:
Why did the little fir tree feel unhappy in the beginning of the story?
Answer:

The little fir tree felt unhappy because it was small and short compared to the other trees around it. It wished to grow tall like the pine and oak trees so it could see the world better. The tree didn't realize its own beauty and value at first.

Question 11:
How did the little fir tree help the mother and her child in the story?
Answer:

The little fir tree helped by providing shelter to the mother and her child during a snowstorm. Its branches protected them from the cold wind and snow. The tree felt happy because it finally realized its purpose in helping others.

Question 12:
What lesson did the little fir tree learn by the end of the story?
Answer:

By the end, the little fir tree learned that happiness comes from being useful and kind to others. It understood that being small didn't make it less important. The tree also realized that every living thing has its own unique role in nature.

Question 13:
Describe the setting where the little fir tree grew.
Answer:

The little fir tree grew in a forest surrounded by tall trees like pines and oaks. The area had green grass, flowers, and a stream nearby. In winter, the place was covered with snow, making it look beautiful but very cold.

Question 14:
Why did the birds and other animals avoid the little fir tree initially?
Answer:

The birds and animals avoided the little fir tree because its branches were too short and prickly for nests or shade. They preferred the taller trees with more space. Later, when the tree helped the mother and child, the animals saw its kindness and started appreciating it.

Question 15:
How did the little fir tree's feelings change from the beginning to the end of the story?
Answer:

At first, the tree felt sad and jealous of the taller trees. But after helping the mother and child, it felt proud and happy. The tree understood that size doesn't matter as much as kindness and usefulness. This change shows the importance of self-acceptance.

Long Answer (5 Marks) – with Solutions (CBSE Pattern)

These 5-mark questions are descriptive and require detailed, structured answers with proper explanation and examples.

Question 1:
Describe the feelings of the little fir tree when it was first decorated and later when it was discarded. What lesson does this teach us?
Answer:

The little fir tree felt extremely happy and proud when it was first decorated with shiny ornaments, lights, and gifts. It enjoyed the attention and admiration from the people around it, thinking it was the most beautiful tree in the world. However, after the celebrations were over, it was thrown away and left alone in a dark corner. The tree felt sad, lonely, and regretful for wishing to be something it was not.

This teaches us an important lesson: we should learn to appreciate what we have instead of always wanting more. The tree was unhappy because it kept comparing itself to others and dreaming of being different. True happiness comes from accepting ourselves and finding joy in the present moment.

Question 2:
How did the little fir tree change from the beginning to the end of the story? Explain its journey and the emotions it experienced.
Answer:

At the beginning of the story, the little fir tree was impatient and dissatisfied with its life. It envied the taller trees and wished to grow quickly so it could be cut down and decorated like them. It did not appreciate its own beauty or the simple joys of nature.

Later, when it was finally chosen and decorated, the tree felt excited and proud, but this happiness was short-lived. After the festivities, it was discarded and left to wither away, feeling lonely and regretful.

By the end, the tree realized its mistake—it had wasted its time wishing for things it didn’t have instead of enjoying the present. Its journey teaches us that true contentment comes from within and that we should cherish what we have rather than always wanting more.

Question 3:
Describe the feelings of the little fir tree when it was first taken to the city. How did its emotions change over time?
Answer:

The little fir tree felt excited and proud when it was first taken to the city. It was happy to be chosen and admired by people, thinking it would have a grand life. The tree enjoyed the decorations and attention it received during the festive season.

However, its emotions changed over time. After the celebrations ended, the tree was left alone in a dark corner, feeling neglected and sad. It realized that its beauty was temporary, and it missed its home in the forest. The tree learned that true happiness comes from being content with what you have, rather than longing for something else.

This story teaches us the importance of appreciating the present and not always wishing for things we don’t have.

Question 4:
Explain the moral lesson of the story The Little Fir Tree and how it applies to real life.
Answer:

The moral lesson of The Little Fir Tree is about contentment and the dangers of always wanting more. The tree was never happy with its life in the forest and kept wishing to be somewhere else. When its wish came true, it realized that the city life was not as wonderful as it had imagined.

In real life, this lesson teaches us to:

  • Appreciate what we have instead of always wanting more.
  • Understand that things may not be as perfect as they seem from afar.
  • Find joy in the present moment rather than constantly chasing new desires.

For example, a child might wish for a new toy but later realize that the old one was just as fun. The story reminds us that true happiness comes from within, not from external things.

Question 5:
Describe the journey of the little fir tree from its early days in the forest to its final realization. What lessons does its story teach us?
Answer:

The little fir tree started its life in a dense forest, always unhappy with its small size and longing to grow tall like the older trees. It envied the other trees when they were cut down, thinking they were going to a better place. Later, it was cut and decorated as a Christmas tree, but after the celebrations, it was discarded and left to wither away. In its final moments, the tree realized that it should have appreciated its time in the forest instead of always wanting more.

The story teaches us important lessons:

  • Contentment: We should be happy with what we have instead of always wishing for more.
  • Patience: Growth takes time, and rushing it can lead to regret.
  • Appreciation: Enjoy the present moment instead of worrying about the future.

The little fir tree's journey reminds us that true happiness comes from within, not from external things.

Question 6:
How does the little fir tree change its perspective about life from the beginning to the end of the story? Explain with examples.
Answer:

At the beginning of the story, the little fir tree is impatient and dissatisfied. It constantly complains about being small and wishes to grow faster like the older trees. For example, when the woodcutters take away the tall trees, the little fir tree assumes they are going to a better place and feels left out.

Later, when it becomes a Christmas tree, it enjoys the attention and decorations but soon realizes that this happiness is temporary. After the celebrations, it is thrown away and left to rot. In its final moments, the tree reflects on its life and understands its mistakes.

The change in perspective happens when the tree realizes:

  • It should have cherished its time in the forest instead of always wanting more.
  • True happiness comes from accepting oneself and living in the present.

This transformation teaches us the importance of gratitude and self-acceptance in life.

Question 7:
Describe the feelings of the little fir tree when it was taken to the town and decorated. How did its perspective change by the end of the story?
Answer:

The little fir tree felt excited and proud when it was taken to the town and decorated with shiny ornaments, lights, and gifts. It enjoyed being the center of attention and admired by everyone during the festive season. The tree believed it had finally achieved its dream of being special and important.

However, by the end of the story, its perspective changed when the celebrations ended, and it was left alone in a dark corner. The tree realized that its beauty was temporary, and it missed its home in the forest. It understood that true happiness comes from being content with what you have rather than longing for something else. The little fir tree learned the value of patience and the importance of appreciating one's own life.

Question 8:
Explain the moral lesson of the story The Little Fir Tree and how it applies to real-life situations.
Answer:

The moral lesson of The Little Fir Tree is that happiness comes from within and that we should appreciate what we have instead of always wanting more. The tree was unhappy in the forest, dreaming of being tall and admired like the other trees. However, when it got what it wanted, it realized that true joy lies in being grateful for one's own life.

This lesson applies to real-life situations in many ways:

  • Children often wish to grow up quickly but later realize that childhood is a precious time.
  • People may chase material things, thinking they will bring happiness, but true contentment comes from relationships and simple joys.
  • Comparing ourselves to others can lead to dissatisfaction, whereas focusing on our own growth brings peace.
The story teaches us to cherish the present and find joy in our own journey.

Question 9:
Describe the feelings of the little fir tree when it was first taken to the town. How did its feelings change later and why?
Answer:

The little fir tree felt excited and proud when it was first taken to the town. It was happy to be chosen and admired by people, thinking it would have a special purpose. The tree enjoyed the attention and decorations placed on it, believing it was the most beautiful tree in the world.

However, its feelings changed later when it realized it was only being used temporarily for Christmas. After the celebrations, it was thrown away and forgotten. The tree felt sad and lonely, understanding that its beauty was short-lived. This experience taught the tree the value of patience and the importance of growing naturally rather than seeking quick admiration.

The story highlights how happiness based on temporary things can lead to disappointment, while true joy comes from accepting oneself and growing at one's own pace.

Question 10:
Explain the lesson the little fir tree learned by the end of the story. How can children apply this lesson in their lives?
Answer:

By the end of the story, the little fir tree learned that patience and contentment are more important than seeking quick admiration or trying to grow too fast. It realized that comparing itself to others and wishing for a different life only brought sadness. Instead, it understood the value of being grateful for its own journey.

Children can apply this lesson in their lives by:

  • Avoiding comparisons with others and appreciating their unique qualities.
  • Being patient and trusting the process of growth, whether in studies, sports, or personal development.
  • Finding joy in small, everyday moments rather than chasing temporary happiness.

The story teaches that true fulfillment comes from within, and rushing through life can lead to regret. Just like the tree, children should focus on growing steadily and enjoying each stage of their lives.

Case-based Questions (4 Marks) – with Solutions (CBSE Pattern)

These 4-mark case-based questions assess analytical skills through real-life scenarios. Answers must be based on the case study provided.

Question 1:
In The Little Fir Tree, the tree was unhappy with its needles. What lesson did it learn by the end of the story? Explain with examples from the text.
Answer:

The Little Fir Tree learned that happiness comes from accepting oneself rather than wanting to be like others. Initially, it disliked its sharp needles and envied the beautiful leaves of other trees. However, when a family chose it as their Christmas tree and decorated it, the tree realized its needles were special because they stayed green all winter while other trees lost their leaves.

For example, the text mentions how children admired the tree's decorations and its evergreen nature. This taught the tree to appreciate its uniqueness instead of comparing itself to others.

Question 2:
How did the Little Fir Tree's feelings change from the beginning to the end of the story? Support your answer with details from the chapter.
Answer:

At the beginning, the Little Fir Tree felt sad and dissatisfied because it thought its needles were not as beautiful as the leaves of other trees. It kept wishing to change itself.

By the end, the tree became happy and proud when it was decorated as a Christmas tree and admired by everyone. The text describes how the tree sparkled with lights and ornaments, making it feel special. This change shows the importance of self-acceptance and finding joy in one's own qualities.

Question 3:
Why do you think the family chose the Little Fir Tree for Christmas instead of other trees? Give two reasons based on the story.
Answer:

The family chose the Little Fir Tree for two main reasons:

1. Evergreen Nature: Unlike other trees that shed leaves in winter, the fir tree's needles stayed green and fresh, making it perfect for Christmas.

2. Perfect Shape: The text mentions the tree was small and well-shaped, which made it easy to decorate and fit indoors. These qualities made the fir tree the best choice for the festive celebration.

Question 4:
In The Little Fir Tree, the tree was unhappy with its needles. What lesson does this teach us about appreciating what we have?
Answer:

The story of The Little Fir Tree teaches us the importance of gratitude and self-acceptance. The tree was unhappy with its needles and wished for leaves like other trees, but later realized their value when it lost them. This shows:

  • We often fail to appreciate what we have until it's gone.
  • Every creation has its own unique qualities that make it special.
  • Comparing ourselves to others can lead to unnecessary sadness.

The tree's journey helps us understand that true happiness comes from valuing our own strengths and not desiring what others have.

Question 5:
How did the seasons affect the Little Fir Tree's feelings in the story? Explain with examples.
Answer:

The changing seasons played a big role in shaping the Little Fir Tree's emotions throughout the story:

  • Spring/Summer: The tree felt sad seeing deciduous trees with green leaves while it had needles.
  • Autumn: It became happy when those trees lost leaves, realizing its needles stayed green.
  • Winter: The tree felt proud as its needles remained while others were bare, and it got decorated for Christmas.

This shows how the tree's perspective changed with each season, teaching us that time and experience help us understand our true worth.

Question 6:
Imagine you're the Little Fir Tree after the Christmas celebration. Write a short reflection (4-5 sentences) about what you learned.
Answer:

If I were the Little Fir Tree after Christmas, I would reflect: 'I spent so much time wishing to be like other trees, but now I understand how special I am. My evergreen needles stayed beautiful all year when others lost their leaves. Being chosen as a Christmas tree made me realize my true value. I've learned that instead of comparing myself to others, I should appreciate my own qualities. Every tree - just like every person - has something unique to offer.'

This reflection shows the tree's growth in understanding self-worth and the importance of patience in discovering one's purpose.

Question 7:
In The Little Fir Tree, the tree was unhappy with its needles. Why did it feel this way, and what lesson can we learn from its experience?
Answer:

The Little Fir Tree was unhappy with its needles because it compared itself to other trees with broad, green leaves that changed colors in different seasons. It felt plain and wished to be different.

The lesson we learn is that everyone is unique and special in their own way. The tree later realized its needles stayed green all year, providing shelter to birds in winter, which the other trees couldn't do. Comparing ourselves to others can make us unhappy, but embracing our uniqueness brings joy and purpose.

Question 8:
How did the Little Fir Tree's feelings change from the beginning to the end of the story? Describe with examples from the text.
Answer:

At the beginning, the Little Fir Tree felt disappointed and jealous of other trees with leaves, wishing it could shed its needles.

Later, when a gold leaf, a glass bead, and a silver star were placed on it during Christmas, it felt proud and happy.

By the end, it understood its needles were useful when birds took shelter in winter, making it feel content and valued. This shows how appreciating what we have leads to happiness.

Question 9:
Imagine you are the Little Fir Tree after the Christmas decorations are removed. Write a short paragraph (4-5 lines) expressing your thoughts.
Answer:

After the decorations were gone, I felt a little sad at first, missing the shiny gold leaf and silver star. But then, I noticed birds nesting in my branches, chirping happily. I realized my green needles kept them warm in the cold. Now, I feel proud because I help others even without decorations. Being myself is the best gift of all!

Question 10:
In The Little Fir Tree, the tree was unhappy with its needles. Why did it feel this way? How did its perspective change by the end of the story?
Answer:

The Little Fir Tree was unhappy with its needles because it compared itself to other trees with broad, green leaves that fell in autumn. It felt plain and ordinary. However, by the end of the story, the tree realized its needles stayed green all year, even in winter, while other trees lost their leaves. This made it special and appreciated, especially when children decorated it for Christmas.

The tree learned that being different is not bad and that everyone has unique qualities. This change in perspective teaches us to value what we have instead of wishing for what others possess.

Question 11:
Describe the emotions of the Little Fir Tree when it was taken to the cottage and decorated. What lesson does this part of the story teach?
Answer:

When the Little Fir Tree was taken to the cottage, it felt excited and proud because it was finally noticed and adorned with shiny decorations, candles, and gifts. It enjoyed being the center of attention and felt special.

This part of the story teaches us that patience and self-worth are important. The tree waited for its moment to shine and realized its true value. It also shows that happiness comes when we are appreciated for who we are.

Question 12:
How did the Little Fir Tree react when it saw the other trees losing their leaves in autumn? What would you have advised the tree at that time?
Answer:

The Little Fir Tree felt envious when it saw the other trees lose their leaves because it thought their changing colors made them more beautiful. It didn’t realize that its own evergreen needles were an advantage.

If I were to advise the tree, I would say:

  • Do not compare yourself to others.
  • Your needles keep you green and strong even in winter.
  • Every tree has unique features, and yours will be appreciated one day.
This teaches us to embrace our uniqueness and wait for the right time to be recognized.

Question 13:
In The Little Fir Tree, the tree was unhappy with its needles. Why did it feel this way? How did its feelings change by the end of the story?
Answer:

The Little Fir Tree was unhappy with its needles because it compared itself to other trees with broad, green leaves that fell in autumn. It thought its needles were plain and unchanging.
By the end, the tree realized its needles stayed green all year, even in winter, when other trees were bare. This made it special and useful for people during Christmas. The tree learned to appreciate its uniqueness and felt proud of itself.

Question 14:
Describe how the Little Fir Tree was decorated for Christmas. What lesson did it learn from this experience?
Answer:

The Little Fir Tree was decorated with shining ornaments, glittering tinsel, and bright candles for Christmas. Children danced around it, and it felt joyful being the center of attention.
The tree learned that being different (with needles) made it perfect for this special occasion. It understood that every living thing has its own purpose and beauty.

Question 15:
The Little Fir Tree wished for leaves like the other trees. What happened when its wish came true? Why was this not as good as it expected?
Answer:

When the Little Fir Tree got its wish of having golden leaves, a man stole them because they were valuable. Next, it got glass leaves, but they broke in the wind. Finally, it grew green leaves, but a goat ate them all.
The tree realized these changes made it weak and unhappy. Its original needles were sturdy and useful, teaching it that nature knows best and we should appreciate what we have.

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