The central lesson of “Cinderella” is to always be kind to one another. For many years, Cinderella and her parents lived happily in their home and cherished their love for another. One day however, Cinderella’s mother grew ill. Right before she passed away, she spoke the words, “Have courage and be kind,” to Cinderella. Cinderella’s father remarried but passed away shortly thereafter. From that moment on, Cinderella had to “earn” her right to stay. She became a servant for her stepfamily and was treated unkindly. Despite the disrespect and cruelty that she received from her step family, Cinderella continued to be kind. Cinderella's character teaches children that when treated unkindly, they do not have to act in the same fashion. She refused to become bitter, hardened, and cruel like those around her. Cinderella’s fairy godmother also displays kindness. Simply for the sake of being kind, she assists Cinderella in getting to the ball by repairing the torn dress, providing glass slippers, and magically transforming the mice into horses and a pumpkin into a carriage. The fairy god mother’s character teaches children that being kind to others is a reward in itself because of how good it makes us feel. Lastly, this story emphasizes that sometimes treating others with kindness sparks unexpected rewards. Cinderella refused to be anything but kind and ended up marrying the Prince. ( )