Once upon a time, in a quaint village, there lived a kind widow and her two daughters. The elder daughter, who was rude and unpleasant, resembled her mother, while the younger daughter was beautiful and gentle, yet often mistreated by her family.
One day, the younger daughter was sent to fetch water from the well. As she filled her pitcher, she encountered a mysterious woman who was actually a disguised fairy. The fairy was impressed by the girl’s kindness and offered her a magical gift. Whenever the young girl spoke, jewels and flowers would fall from her mouth, a blessing that would bring her fortune and admiration.
Curious about her sister’s newfound gift, the elder daughter insisted on visiting the well herself. However, when she met the fairy, she was rude and dismissive. In response to her ungratefulness, the fairy cursed her. From that day on, whenever the elder daughter spoke, toads and snakes would fall from her mouth, a punishment for her cruel behavior.
When the elder daughter returned home, her mother was horrified by the sight of the toads and snakes. Blaming the younger daughter for the elder’s misfortune, the mother drove her away. Heartbroken but resilient, the kind daughter wandered into the forest, where she encountered a handsome prince.
The prince was captivated by her beauty and grace. He soon learned of her kindness and the magical gift she possessed. They fell in love, and the prince brought her back to his kingdom, where she was celebrated and cherished.
Meanwhile, the elder daughter, lost and alone in the woods, faced the consequences of her actions. She eventually met a tragic end, realizing too late that kindness and humility are far more valuable than arrogance and greed.
Toads and Diamonds teaches us that our words and actions have power. Kindness is rewarded, while cruelty leads to downfall. This timeless tale reminds us to choose our words wisely and treat others with respect, for you never know what blessings may come your way.
