This month, we’re exploring the virtue of Courage—today’s story is a classic, beloved, and likely familiar one that invites us to listen anew in order to search for the doorways that have the potential to open up to us through every story, and ultimately, in every moment of our lives.

This story is about a little engine who doesn’t look as big or as strong as the others. No one expects her to do the hard thing. But when no one else will step up to help, she listens to the quiet strength inside her. She tries. She keeps going. And she discovers something powerful…

This is the story of The Little Engine That Could.

So, my brave and bright friends… What stood out to you in today’s story?

One thing I noticed was how the little blue engine wasn’t completely sure she could do it—but she kept going anyway. She used the power of her thoughts and her words to help herself believe: "I think I can. I think I can." That’s pretty amazing, isn’t it?

And I loved the image of the silly little clown, waving his flag and doing everything he could to help the broken-down train. He didn’t give up either!

Can you picture the train trying to make it up the steep, tall mountain? Or all the little dolls and toys leaning out of the train windows? What parts of the story lit up your imagination?

And… Have you ever tried something that felt really hard? Maybe it was tying your shoes… or riding a bike… or walking into a new school for the very first time?

Can you try something with me right now? Go ahead and place your hands on your heart and whisper to yourself, “I think I can”? Maybe there’s something you want to try, or something you’ve been working on.

Go ahead and whisper it…. Can you feel that little strength inside you?

It’s there. It’s always been there. And it’s growing, every time you try.

You, my friend, are braver than you know.

And speaking of courage… I have a small and mighty invitation for you.

Every week, I light a lantern and invite you and your family into a world of wonder—where stories carry timeless wisdom, and courage, kindness, and faith take root in young hearts. This podcast is a labor of love, spun late at night after my two little ones are asleep, and offered freely to families everywhere.

If Brave & Bright Stories has become a part of your family’s listening adventures, would you consider stepping into our circle of supporters? Your subscription keeps the lanterns lit, the stories flowing, and the values we hold dear shining bright.

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Whether you join as a Friend, keep watch in the Circle of Light, or take up the mantle of a Legacy Lantern, know that your support makes a real difference in our lives and in the future of this show.

And whether or not you subscribe, I am so glad you are here—helping to keep building our courage,to stay brave,stay bright,and keep growing together…one story at a time.

With warmth and wonder,Hannah

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