Waddle, the little wizard missed Wizardland, his home. He had wasted his wizard- magic by playing tricks and jokes, instead of doing good, so one day it vanished. The Grand Wizard sent him away to Humanland, to learn the value of magic. He was sad.
He decided, “I am going to turn over a leaf, no more pranks, no more jokes on innocent people. I'll go back home.” The thought made him happy and excited.
On a busy street he saw a small girl on the pavement. “Ah, I'll help her to cross the street,” he said. Without a second's thought, as soon as the traffic cleared, he almost dragged her across, paying no attention to her protests.
“No trouble…,” he interrupted, thinking she was grateful, or shy, when he was pushed aside by an angry man.
“What do you think you are doing, you fool? My daughter was waiting for me. I'll call the police!”
Waddle tried to explain, but just then he heard the police siren and ran. Dejected, he decided he'd help someone near his friend Chandu's farm. There was a lovely plant-nursery there. His eyes brightened as he saw rows of red rose bushes — in pots and on wet sacks. There was a tempo van parked close by.
“Oh, these have to be cut so they can be taken to the market, I must help,” he thought. He picked up a pair of scissors lying there and started snipping. “Oh, I'll cut the pink buds, they will open soon!” He cut two dozen rosebuds and then he heard a yell.
“Hey, who ARE YOU? And what do you think you are doing? Wait till I catch you!”
Waddle didn't wait to hear any more…he took to his heels. How much he missed Wizardland! He thought longingly of the green skies, purple hills, blue seas and sunny sparkling streams. He had to go back and do something to show everyone he'd never again mis-use his magic. He ran home as a tear rolled down his face.
“Don't cry, Waddle,” said his friend Chandu. Waddle told him how he had tried to be helpful and how every time it had backfired. Chandu thought hard, then said, “Listen, you must continue to help, Waddle, do it differently. First, see what a person wants done, then help.”
So Waddle became smart and started observing. He became really helpful. He helped the vegetable vendor to pick up his scattered onions. He helped old Paati to go to the temple. He saw when someone needed help and then asked if he could be of use. People smiled their thanks, or patted him on the back, or praised him for his help.
Best of all, one day a small card floated into his hand. It was purple, with a border of silver stars and silver moon crescents. It said, “We are so pleased with your good deeds. You will soon be home. Continue the good work.” Waddle knew it was from Wizardland and he was overjoyed! His face was one BIG grin! Home at lo-o-n-ng last!
