Not Invited

By Aleena Wadsworth

(Based on a true story)

The author lives in Idaho, USA.

My birthday party is next week! I hope you can come.

My mom said I could only invite five friends. Sorry.

Hi, Becky! How was—

Sweetie, what’s wrong?

Kristie’s having a party, but I’m not invited.

I feel so left out.

That’s really hard. I’m sorry your feelings are hurt.

It’s not fair!

Maybe there’s a reason we don’t know about.

Dear Heavenly Father, please help me forgive Kristie for not inviting me.

The next day …

Hi, Kristie.

Hi, Becky. Sorry I couldn’t invite you to my party.

It’s OK. Do you want to jump rope with me?

A few months later …

Time to plan your birthday party! Who are you going to invite?

Kate and Jenny and Latisha. And …

Kristie didn’t invite me to her party. But she’s still my friend.

Do you want to come to my party, Kristie?

Yes! Thank you for inviting me!

Illustrations by Casey Nelson