A Forest Classroom: Lessons in Tolerance from Wild Orchids

On International Tolerance Day, November 16th, the story of a boy nicknamed "Square Head" and his love for nature has left a meaningful lesson about respect and empathy, not only between people but also with all living things in nature. A beautiful friendship has blossomed from tears of love for wild orchids.
 
The soft autumn sun filtered through the lush green canopy of the Vietnam Forest Resources Museum, where the 6A1 class was on a meaningful field trip. The cheerful laughter of the students blended with the chirping of birds, creating a natural symphony in the forest.
Among the excited students, there was a special boy named Tung Lam. Lâm's big round eyes behind his glasses always shone with passion and rare sensitivity. He walked slowly, as if wanting to engrave every precious moment with nature. The small clusters of wild orchids swaying in the gentle breeze completely captivated the heart of this nature-loving boy.
"Look, everyone, this is a rare wild orchid species of Vietnam," said Ms. Thu, "this species is being conserved..."
Before she could finish, a sob interrupted her. Everyone turned around and saw Lâm sitting under the old banyan tree, tears rolling down his cheeks. Tuan, the most active boy in the class, blurted out: "Hey, Square Head is crying again!" A few chuckles rang out.
But this time, something unexpected happened. Mai, a girl in the class, walked over to Lâm: "Hey, why are you sad? Let's see what's wrong together."
Through his tears, Lâm pointed to the orchid bush: "You... you see, the flowers are so beautiful, but... but the worms are eating them all."
Ms. Thu gently sat down beside Lâm and stroked his hair affectionately: "You know, in nature, everything is interconnected. Although the worms eat orchids, they will turn into beautiful butterflies, helping to pollinate other flowers. That's the wonderful cycle of nature."
"Really?" Lâm's eyes lit up after the tears. "So... they're also helping to protect the forest?"
"That's right," she smiled. "Today is November 16th - International Tolerance Day. I want you all to understand that tolerance is not only about treating people well, but also about respecting all living things in nature. Each species has its own role."
Tuan suddenly walked over to Lâm, hesitating: "I... I'm sorry for teasing you. Actually, I really like the way you observe nature. Can you teach me how to identify different types of orchids?"
Lâm's face brightened: "Of course! I have a whole notebook of notes on the flowers in the forest."
From that day on, "Square Head" was no longer Lâm's nickname. Instead, his friends called him "Little Botanist". Their friendship blossomed and grew like green shoots in the forest, nurtured by understanding and tolerance.
This small story in the forest has taught the children a great lesson: Love and compassion are not only for humans, but also extend to all living things in nature. Because we are all indispensable pieces in the wonderful picture of life.