When Christmas time came near, many young trees were cut down. Some were younger and smaller than the Fir Tree. "Where are they going?" asked the Fir Tree.

"They do not cut off their branches."

The sparrows sang: "We know where they are going. We have peeked in the windows of houses.

They are decorated with beautiful lights, candles and playthings."

"Then what happens?" asked the Fir Tree.

"We didn't see any more" said the sparrows.

"That is even better than sailing across the sea" said the Fir Tree. "Maybe someday I will be in a warm

house and have pretty decorations put on me" "Oh, how I long to be taken out of the forest."

"Be happy where you are" said the sunbeams. "Enjoy the fresh air and sunlight."

The Fir Tree was not happy. Another winter and summer passed. Christmas time came. At last the Fir

Tree was cut down. It knew it would never see the little bushes, flowers and animals ever again. The

ride on the wagon was not comfortable.

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