The Odd Plant

Cacti said, "I heard what they said to you, I've been in that position too. " "What do you mean?" said Cactus "I used to be ridiculed, called names, and feared because of how I looked. But, that was until I learned that I don't need anyone's acceptance and that being different is okay."

"I could help you to be like me too," said Cactus "Really?" Cacti responded with surprise. "Of course! just follow me", said Cactus confidently.

The plants circled the new plant. They were confused as to what type of plant it is. "Where are you from and what are you?" asked the sunflower plant. Before the plant could speak, he pricked one of the sunflower's leaves. "OW!!! HE PRICKED ME!"

All of the plants backed up from the new plant. Their faces were disgusted and in fear. Before the plants could run away, the sunflower plant screamed, "You will not come back to us again!"

One day, the owner of the garden decided to move the Cacti and Cactus to another spot in the garden. There they could enjoy the reflection of themselves in the nearby fountain. Cacti said, "You must look at your reflection in the fountain and list your differences from the other plants" "Those differences are your perfections. After this, you won't seek acceptance but instead others will want to accept you."

Plants turned their leaves to greet the new plant.

The plant was big and prickly, set in a pot and wouldn't talk.

But one day a new plant came...

Individual Picture Story Book 8th Grade Benjamin Tasker Middle School Joshua Arrieta

The plant that remained resembled the new plant. He was little, with prickly spikes, green color, and sat in a pot.

The remaining plant turned and introduced himself. "Hi , my name is Cacti". The other plant responded, "Nice to meet you. My name is Cactus. It looks like we have a lot in common".

But there was one plant left in the crowd.

Cactus knew he needed to be honest with himself or else he would not be satisfied. The Cactus deeply looked into the mirror of his reflection. He looked at his spikes, his color, and his pot. Hours later, he realized that all these things made him not at all ugly or funny looking.

Cactus looked away from his image and was ready to confront the plants with a bigger and brighter attitude. He did not need their acceptance. He just wanted to show them who he really was.

The Cactus met the plants with confidence. For the first time, Cactus said his name proudly. " Hi my name is Cactus and I'm sorry about our first meeting." Before the plants could scream at him to get away, He said, "I am friendly and I am not a monster. I am only different which does not make me worse then you guys"

Suddenly, the owner came and moved Cactus back to its original location. But, Cactus felt he did not need a response from the other plants. He felt comfortable, confident and better than ever.

One day in someone's garden there were many plants.

The plants lived in harmony where they were watered and happy.

Name

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