Nino and the Rising Tide

The sun was warm on my green shell as I stood on the golden sand of Crystal Cove. My task was simple: I had to gather twelve flat stones to protect my resting spot before the big tide arrived tomorrow. I saw my friend Baybinha, an eight-year-old explorer, waving from the water's edge while little Chalita, the tiny toy tugboat, bobbed curiously in a shallow tide pool nearby.

But the water looked so blue and inviting! Baybinha called out, 'Nino, come see the sparkling shells in the deep pool!' I looked at my pile of stones—I only had two. 'The stones can wait,' I thought bravely, though I was really just being bold about avoiding my chores. I scurried toward the waves, leaving my work behind to chase the salty spray and watch Chalita spin in circles.

Soon, Baybona, who is ten and the most creative sea-spirit I know, joined us. She began building a giant sand palace with towers made of purple coral. 'Help me decorate, Nino!' she laughed. I spent the whole afternoon digging tunnels and making seaweed flags. I forgot all about those twelve stones until the sun started to dip below the horizon, painting the sky in shades of pink and orange.

The next morning, I woke up to a loud whoosh! The tide was coming in much faster than I had expected. My heart hammered against my chest as I looked at my empty stone pile and felt a cold shiver. I was completely unprepared, and the waves were already reaching for my cozy sand bed. I felt so stressed and worried because I had chosen play over my important job.

I had to be brave now. Even though the waves were strong and scary, I dove into the surf to find the stones I should have gathered yesterday. It was much harder now! The water was cloudy and the stones were tumbling in the current. 'I can do this!' I chirped, pushing against the cold water. Baybinha and Baybona saw me struggling and rushed over to help me pull the heavy rocks to safety.

We worked until our flippers and feet were tired, barely finishing the wall before a giant wave crashed against the shore. My little wall held firm, but I was too exhausted to enjoy the beautiful morning. While Chalita the toy floated peacefully in the calm water behind my wall, I sat on the sand, catching my breath. I realized that my choice to play first made my work a hundred times harder.

Now I know that the best kind of fun comes after the work is done. I thanked Baybinha, Baybona, and even little Chalita for staying with me. Next time, I will gather my stones first so I can enjoy the beach without any worries at all. Being brave means doing what needs to be done, even when the sun is shining and the waves are calling my name.