Precious Pearl

Ever since she was old enough to pick up a crayon, Lucy has enjoyed writing stories. She strings words together just like the pearls that are strung together to form the necklace that her mother wears to church every Sunday. After spotting a silly little mouse squeezing through a hole in the wall at church, Lucy is inspired to write a story for her next assignment at school. When her talents are questioned, Lucy finds comfort from a classmate who gives her a special gift. Thanks to the boy's kindness, Lucy learns the importance of the many gifts in her life -- not only her gift for storytelling but the greater gift of friendship. She is inspired by the parable of the precious pearl: "Again, the kingdom of heaven is like a merchant in search of fine pearls, who, on finding one pearl of great value, went and sold all that he had and bought it." (Matthew 13: 45-46)