The Portrait That Smiled

Lily is fond of the long hallway in her grandmother's house, where a large gold-framed portrait of an elderly woman in a deep-blue dress hangs on the wall. Grandmother Rose explains that the painting is very old and has watched over the house for many years. Lily soon notices something odd: when the family treats one another kindly, the painted smile appears to widen and the rosy cheeks grow brighter, while arguments about bills, messy rooms and chores make the smile fade.

Hoping to bring the smile back, Lily tapes a Kindness List beneath the portrait and begins with small gestures, such as thanking Mum for the toast. Gradually the whole family takes part, though old habits sometimes return. This gentle tale by Yavuz DEMİRKIRAN follows Lily, her parents and Grandmother Rose as they discover how gratitude and care can warm a home. The story can be read on Online Masal.