Buddy the Dog: Facing Prejudice
Buddy the Dog Coloring Page
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This story aims to show young readers the importance of expressing feelings and thinking before you speak to overcome prejudice and build true friendships.
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1. "How would you feel if someone said something about you that didn't feel nice?"
2. "What would you do if a friend felt sad because of something someone else said?"
3. "Can you think of a time when being kind helped make someone feel better?"
In the colorful town of Rainbowville, there lived a shiny black dog named Buddy. Buddy was known for his bright smile and his love for running faster than the wind. He lived in a cozy little house at the end of Maple Street with his loving parents. Every morning, Buddy would wag his tail excitedly, ready to greet the day. His parents always told him, "Remember, Buddy, kindness is your superpower." Buddy kept those words close to his heart, hoping to spread kindness everywhere he went.
Buddy loved making friends and playing in the park. But sometimes, Buddy felt sad. Some animals in the park would say things that made him uncomfortable. They'd tell him, "Wow, Buddy, you're so well-spoken!" or "You're handsome for a black dog," and even, "Most dogs are lazy, but not you!" They tried to be friendly, but their words didn't feel nice.
One day, after playing in the park, Buddy heard someone say, "You're different from other dogs, in a good way." Buddy tried to smile, but inside, he felt a little hurt. Why couldn't he just be a good dog, like anyone else? Why was he always "different"? He thought about these other animals and wondered if they truly understood how their words made him feel. Feeling confused, Buddy decided to talk to his parents. He told them about the things other animals said and how those words made him feel sad and left out, even when they were trying to be nice.
Buddy's parents listened carefully and hugged him tight. They explained that sometimes, animals say things without realizing they can be hurtful. They told him it's important to share his feelings and let others know when something they say makes him uncomfortable. They practiced together what Buddy could say. His mom suggested, "When you say I'm 'well-spoken for a black dog,' it makes me feel like you're surprised that I can speak well. I'd prefer if we could just talk without mentioning my color because I'm just like you, wanting to have fun and be friends." His dad added, "And if someone says you're different in a 'good way,' you can gently tell them, 'I'm not good because I'm different; I'm good because I try to be a kind friend, just like anyone can be.'"
The next day in the park, when a squirrel said, "You're not like other dogs; you're better!" Buddy took a deep breath and remembered his parents' advice. He replied, "I think all dogs have something special about them. I like to be kind and friendly, and I bet you do too. Let's focus on what makes us great friends instead of how we're different." Buddy spoke with a gentle voice, but inside, he felt strong and brave. It was the first time he had ever stood up for himself like this.
To Buddy's surprise, the squirrel paused, then smiled. "You're right, Buddy. I'm sorry if my words hurt you. Let's play together!" As they played, more animals joined, and Buddy felt happy. He realized that by sharing his feelings, he helped his friends understand him better. From that day on, Buddy became not just a fast runner but also a brave voice in Rainbowville. He showed everyone that it's okay to speak up kindly and teach others how to be better friends. And the best part? Buddy never felt alone at the park again. He had found true friends who loved him just for being Buddy. Buddy’s story spread throughout Rainbowville, reminding everyone that kindness and understanding make the strongest friendships.
