Dionysus

Look at the bright sunshine warming up the juicy, purple grapes. The grapes are round and sweet. A kind friend named Dionysus loved to dance and sing where the fruit grew. He had a happy story to share with the whole world. This is the myth of Dionysus and the gift of laughter.

Long, long ago, Dionysus rode in a special cart pulled by big, gentle cats. He went on a long journey. He saw people who were quiet and tired. Dionysus wanted to make them smile. So, he showed them how to grow grapes. Big, purple grapes. He taught them to make sweet, yummy juice that made everyone feel happy and cheerful. He brought his friends, the playful Satyrs with their funny goat legs. The Satyrs played music on their little pipes. Toot-toot-toot went the music. Everyone started to dance. They danced and danced and danced. They put on funny masks and told silly stories. They watched wonderful plays outside in the sunshine. The quiet world was now full of music and happy giggles. Everyone had big parties called festivals, where they could sing and be friends together. What a happy time it was.

A Gift That Lasts Forever
The people loved Dionysus for his special gift. The gift was not just grapes. It was the joy of sharing songs and stories with friends. It was the happiness of being together. They painted happy pictures of him so they would always remember to celebrate. And guess what. When we go to a play or sing a happy song, we feel that same joy. When we have a party with our friends, we are sharing the same happy gift. Dionysus's story reminds us to find happiness all around us and to share it with everyone.