The Legend of the Bleeding-heart

"The Legend of the Bleeding-heart" by Annie F. Johnston is a fairy tale that highlights the important themes of sacrifice, thankfulness, and what happens when we forget those who love us, all within a world where magic feels real and nature shows human feelings. The story tells of a loving Flax-spinner and her adopted daughter, Olga, and it shows the lasting strength of love and remembering. The Flax-spinner takes in the orphaned Olga, giving her all her love and giving up much for her happiness. But as Olga grows beautiful and popular, she starts going to royal parties and, sadly, forgets all the things the old woman did for her. When bad luck suddenly appears, Olga understands what her forgetfulness has cost her, and she tries to win back what she has lost. In time, Olga finds out just how much the Flax-spinner loved her when the "bleeding-heart" flowers bloom, representing sacrifice and remembrance, which pushes her to ask for forgiveness and take care of the one who always loved her. The story works as a touching lesson about how important it is to be thankful for those who love and help us.