The Little Rocket Who Was Scared

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There was a little rocket. She was red and white and shiny.

Today was the day she would fly to space for the very first time.

But the little rocket was scared.

Space is so big, she said. And I am so small. What if I can't do it?

Her friend the Moon smiled down at her. Little rocket, she said, are you scared?

Yes, said the little rocket. Very.

That's alright, said the Moon. Being scared just means you're about to do something big. Let's count together.

And so they counted.

Ten. The little rocket took a breath.

Nine. Her engines rumbled.

Eight. Seven. Six.

Her heart went thump, thump, thump.

Five. Four. Three.

I'm still scared, she whispered.

I know, said the Moon. Go anyway.

Two. One.

LIFT OFF!

WHOOOOOSH!

Up went the little rocket! Past the birds! Past the clouds! Up, up, up into the big dark sky full of stars!

And do you know what she found up there?

It was beautiful. Quiet, and dark, and full of twinkling lights.

I did it! she said. I was scared, and I did it anyway!

And the Moon said: That's what brave means, little one.

Can you count down like the little rocket? Ten, nine, eight...