Maya's New School

Maya woke up with butterflies in her tummy. Today was her first day at a brand new school, and she was scared.

Maya got dressed slowly. She put on her favorite purple cardigan and picked up her yellow backpack with the little lion keychain.

'Remember,' Mom said as they drove to school, 'God is always with you, even when you feel alone. Be brave like Daniel!'

The new school looked so big! Maya held Mom's hand tightly as they walked to the front door.

Mom gave Maya a big hug. 'You can do this, sweetheart. I'll be right here when school ends.'

Inside, the hallway was SO busy! Kids were everywhere, laughing and talking with their friends. Maya didn't know anyone.

A kind teacher found Maya. 'You must be Maya! I'm Mrs. Chen. Welcome to our class!' Her smile made Maya feel a little better.

Mrs. Chen introduced Maya to the class. 'Everyone, this is Maya. Let's make her feel welcome!' All the eyes looking at her made Maya's heart pound.

Maya found her desk. Some kids smiled at her, but a few others whispered and looked away. That made her feel even more nervous.

At lunch, Maya sat alone at the end of a long table. She looked at all the other kids sitting with their friends and felt very lonely.

At recess, everyone seemed to have someone to play with except Maya. She watched the other kids from far away.

Maya found a quiet spot behind the playground. She sat on a bench under a shady tree and felt tears starting to come.

Maya remembered the story of Daniel. He was thrown into a den full of scary lions, but he prayed to God, and God kept him safe!

'Dear God,' Maya whispered, 'this new school feels scary like a lion's den. Please help me be brave like Daniel. Amen.'

Maya took a deep breath. She felt something warm in her heart - like God was hugging her from the inside. She felt braver!

Maya walked back to the playground. She saw a girl with curly red hair playing alone and decided to be brave. 'Hi! Can I play with you?'

The girl's face lit up. 'Yes! I'm Lily! I love your lion keychain!' Maya smiled the biggest smile. She had made a friend!

A boy named Marcus came over. 'Can I play too?' 'Of course!' said Maya, remembering how lonely she had felt. Now she could help others feel welcome!

Maya, Lily, and Marcus played together until the bell rang. Maya laughed and ran and felt so happy. God had answered her prayer!

When Mom picked her up, Maya ran to her with a huge smile. 'Mom! I prayed like Daniel, and God helped me be brave! I made two new friends!' Mom hugged her tight. 'I'm so proud of you, my brave girl!'