I was walking in the aquarium one day, and to my surprise, what jumps out at me but a great big fish! Startled, I ran to my mommy.

“Don’t be worried,” said my mommy. “Fish are our friends! I’ll tell you all about them.“

“Fish are like you and me, except for what they look like. Fish have three fins and a pretty little tail, just like a mermaid’s! They help them to swim through the water, and their big eyes help them to see!“

“Fish are like you and me, except for what they eat. Fish eat all the plants they can find in the ocean. Big fish eat smaller fish, and even bigger fish eat those fish!“

“Fish are like you and me, except for where they live. Fish swim all around the sea. They also swim in lakes, rivers, and ponds. Fish live all around the world!”

“Fish are like you and me, except for the colors they come in. Red, blue, green, and pink, these are all colors that fish can be!”

“But Mommy,” I began, pointing at the thing, “I don’t see how this fish is like me at all. Its fins, its eyes, its colors, and its smile, I don’t have any of the same things this fish has!”

“You’re right,” my mommy replied. “You and the fish are different, but you have some things in common.”

“Fish are like you and me, because they have families. Some fish swim in groups called schools, which keeps them safe and well-fed. They all have mommys and daddys. This way, they’re never alone!”

“Fish are like you and me, because they love to swim and play. Fish swim all through the water, playing with each other and having so much fun!”

“Fish are like you and me, because they are God’s creatures. He loves each and every one of them and wants them to be safe and happy.”

“So don’t be scared of the fish, he’s not here to hurt you. In fact, he probably wants to play!”

I walked over to the giant fish again and put my hand up against the glass. My new friend swam up to me and tapped the other side with his fin. I giggled at the fact that I was afraid of him. Now I know my fishy friend is just like me!