Trading Places

A little bird sat on the windowsill. He looked longingly into the house at a bird in its cage. The cage seemed to be such a pleasant place. It had a swing for exercise, a round reflecting mirror, and a little bell that made a sweet sound. There was always water in one dish and food and treats in another. The little bird thought it looked like a wonderful place to live.

Meanwhile, the bird in the cage looked at the world outside his window. He wondered what it would be like to fly free in the sky and land wherever he wanted. He wished he could see what lay beyond his neat backyard and the fence that surrounded it. His people were kind, but he couldn't help feeling the urge to fly out the window and be free. 

One day, the people left the window and the cage door open. The caged bird decided this was his chance. He quickly flew out the window and into the world beyond. At the same time, the free bird flew from the windowsill into the cage. At first, both birds were thrilled. But soon the house bird missed his cage. It was frightening outside! He wasn't sure where to look for food. Besides, the worms and bugs that the other birds were eating almost ruined his appetite. The outside bird felt trapped in the cage. His heart began to beat wildly. All he could think about was getting back outside!

At the first opportunity, both birds returned to their old ways. Now the caged bird looked at the world with new eyes. It was beautiful, but he was happy to look at it from his perch in the cage. As for the outside bird, he no longer wished to be in the cage. He could hardly believe that he had almost given up his precious freedom for that little space!