Once upon a time there was a small fir tree in a Norwegian forest. It was a very small tree and did not grow. The other trees near him were so tall and had such large branches that the poor little spruce could not grow into a great tall tree. Surrounding the little fir were oaks, pines, and birches. All of them were very useful for people. But the little tree was not useful to anyone and became very sad. One day the fir tree asked the other trees. “Do you know how a small spruce can be useful?” Some of the trees were too proud to respond to such a small tree. But the birch was a good tree and said: “You can be a Christmas tree, but that’s it.” “What is a Christmas tree?” asked the little tree. “I don’t know,” answered the birch, “but once a year, in winter, men come, look at all the little fir trees and choose the most beautiful one for the Christmas tree.” They cut it, but I don’t know what they do with it. “I could be of use to some people,” thought the little spruce. Now she was happy and looking forward to Christmas. Finally, that cold One winter day came, a boy went through the forest with an ax, stopped in front of a small fir tree, cut it down and took it home, this will be the Christmas tree, he told his brothers. The next day the Boys set it up in the great room and decorated it with balloons, paper bells and gold balls. Their mother put some candles on the branches of the tree and lit them. “This is the most beautiful Christmas tree,” shouted one of the boys. The whole family gathered around the tree. They started singing and dancing hand in hand. They were all happy. But the little Christmas tree was the happiest. I will give them joy and happiness. I am happy because now I am useful,” thought the little Christmas tree.