The newborn baby monkey Zhuly stood unsteadily on the soft ground, her tiny legs trembling beneath her fragile body. She was still so young, only days into the world, and walking was not something she truly understood yet. But today felt different. Today, her eyes were fixed on one place—her dad.
Dad sat a short distance away, low to the ground, arms open, eyes gentle and encouraging. He did not rush her. He did not call loudly. He simply waited, trusting her strength to find its way.
Zhuly lifted one foot slowly. It shook, hovered, then touched the ground again. She wobbled, nearly falling, and let out a small squeak of surprise. Her tail flicked nervously as she tried to balance. The world felt big, and her body felt weak, but the warmth she felt looking at dad gave her courage.
Step by step, she tried again.
One tiny step forward. Then another. Each movement was careful, uncertain, and brave. Her body leaned too far, then corrected. She paused, breathing fast, then looked up. Dad smiled softly, nodding as if to say, you can do this.
Zhuly stumbled, falling gently onto her hands. For a moment, she froze. Fear flickered in her eyes. But dad stayed calm. He didn’t move. He let her decide. Slowly, she pushed herself back up, determination stronger than fear.
Another step. Then another.
The distance between them grew smaller. Her steps became quicker, clumsier, but more confident. Finally, with one last shaky movement, Zhuly reached dad. She leaned into him, clinging tightly, her tiny heart racing.
Dad wrapped his arms around her, holding her close. Zhuly relaxed instantly, safe and proud. Her first walk was not perfect, but it was powerful.
That day, Zhuly learned something important. Walking was not just about legs. It was about trust, courage, and knowing someone would be there at the end. Her first steps were small, but they marked the beginning of a lifetime of growing stronger—always walking toward love.
