Little Johnny’s quiet suburban neighborhood had been abuzz with excitement ever since the family next door welcomed a newborn baby.
However, this was no ordinary arrival – the little one had been born without any ears, a fact that had set the local rumor mill into overdrive.
As the new parents returned home from the hospital, Johnny’s family was invited over to meet the unusual but nonetheless precious bundle of joy.
Before heading out, Johnny’s father pulled him aside for a serious discussion.
“Now, Johnny,” the father began, his voice stern, “you know the baby next door doesn’t have any ears, right?”
Johnny nodded, his eyes wide with understanding.
“Well, I want you to promise me that you won’t say a single word about it. If you so much as mention the word ‘ears,’ you’ll be in big trouble when we get back home. Understood?”
Little Johnny gulped nervously, but assured his father that he would keep his promise.
“Yes, Dad. I won’t say anything about the baby’s ears, I promise.”
With that, the family made their way to the neighbors’ house, where Johnny’s gaze immediately fell upon the tiny infant nestled in the bassinet.
Mustering all his self-control, he resisted the urge to comment on the baby’s lack of ears and instead focused on the child’s other features.
“Wow, what a beautiful baby!” Johnny exclaimed, his voice brimming with sincerity.
The proud mother beamed with joy. “Why, thank you, Johnny,” she replied, gently rocking the bassinet.
Emboldened by his initial success, Johnny continued:
“He has beautiful little feet, beautiful little hands, a cute little nose, and really beautiful eyes. Is he able to see alright?”
“Yes,” the mother answered, her smile widening.
“The doctor said he will have perfect vision.”
Johnny nodded, his face lighting up.
“That’s great,” he said. “Because he’d be stuffed if he needed glasses!”
