In a thick forest, under a large pine tree, a Bear was sleeping.
He was curled up, dreaming sweet dreams in his warm den.
The snow covered the forest like a white blanket.
Everything was very quiet.
One day…
Drip.
Drip-drip.
Water began to drip from the top of the den.
The Bear moved one ear.
— Mmm… I must be dreaming…
But the day grew warmer.
Then he heard the sound of birds from outside.
— Chirp-chirp! Spring has come!
The Bear rolled over onto his other side.
— It’s still early…
At that moment, the snow rustled, and a chunk of snow fell at the entrance of the den.
— Oh! — said the Bear, opening one eye.
Outside stood a Rabbit.
— Bear, wake up! Spring has come!
The Bear slowly poked his head out.
The snow was melting.
The sun was warm.
There was a new scent in the air.
A small green blade of grass peeked out from among the snow.
— Who are you? — asked the Bear.
— I am Spring, — whispered the grass.
The Bear took a deep breath.
His heart warmed.
— I almost slept through spring!
He stepped out of his den and smiled at the sun.
The Rabbit burst out laughing:
— Spring doesn’t forget anyone. It wakes everyone up!
Since then, every spring, when the first drop is heard, the Bear opens one eye and checks:
— Has spring come yet? — he would ask himself.
