Torn suddenly from the tree, the tiny, fragile leaf began to spin and swirl upon the breeze. The cold fear it must have felt as it was sundered from its source of life!
     The air-borne traveler then fleetingly sampled the delicious freedom springing from the gust of wind that carried it upward, ever faster, and ever higher. The new-found freedom, however, could not quell the fear of its certain doom. Just as it had briefly ascended, it most certainly would make its final, solemn descent.
     As its magical journey began, the fragile leaf desperately hoped that it would serve a special purpose. That distant hope became reality as the little emerald leaf spiraled downward toward the little girl below.
     She sat beside a still pond gazing sadly into the melancholy reflection that it held of her. Quite unexpectedly, she saw a tiny leaf float down in front of her. As the gentle intruder reached the water, it began to perform a silent ballet; spinning and gliding gracefully upon the water's glassy surface.
     The sweet tranquility and amusement of the spectacle, coaxed an angelic smile from the previously mournful countenance of the precious little girl. Laughter's warm beams of sunshine melted the cold, dark clouds of sorrow. The little girl cheerfully headed out for home.
     She began to dance as she moved along. She tried to imitate the enchanting dance of the emerald leaf. It was a vision she would remember all the days of her life.
     The little girl's distant laughter echoed across the glassy pond as the delicate emerald dancer took its bow. It's elegant form sank quietly beneath the surface.
As it surrendered to the beckoning depths, it rested contently in the peaceful, and deep satisfaction of having sweetly served its unique purpose.