In a small village in China, young Mei was excited for the upcoming Lantern Festival. This year, there would be a contest for the brightest and most beautiful lantern.

Mei worked hard on her lantern, determined to win. She used the finest paper and painted intricate designs, but no matter how hard she tried, her lantern didn't seem special enough.

The night before the festival, Mei heard a cry outside. An old man had fallen and broken his lantern. Without hesitation, Mei offered him her prized creation.

The old man was touched by Mei's kindness. He thanked her and slowly made his way home.

Disappointed but knowing she'd done the right thing, Mei attended the festival without a lantern. To her surprise, she saw her lantern glowing brighter than ever in the old man's hands.

The old man explained that he had added a special candle to the lantern - one that grew brighter with each act of kindness. Mei's selfless act had made it shine the brightest of all.

Mei realized that true brightness comes not from outward beauty, but from the kindness within our hearts. She had won something far more valuable than any contest - the joy of helping others.

From that day on, the village celebrated not just the brightest lantern, but also the kindest act at each Lantern Festival.

Moral: True success and brightness come from kindness and generosity, not outward appearances or competition.