Identifying Theme in a Story about an Oak Tree

In a small village surrounded by lush landscapes, there flourished an ancient oak tree known for its incredible height and vast shade. Every summer, the villagers would gather under its boughs to escape the sun and share stories of old. The tree, though serene, yearned for companionship and often listened intently to the villagers’ tales. One day, a stranger visited the village, drawn by tales of the majestic oak. As the villagers welcomed the stranger, they inadvertently neglected the tree, focusing instead on their new guest. The oak began to droop, its leaves wilting under the lack of attention. Concerned, the villagers remembered the joy and wisdom the tree had provided over the years. They then vowed to balance their time between welcoming newcomers and honoring the cherished presence that was their oak. From that day forth, every story was shared under the oak, with the stranger joining in the conversations, helping to weave the old with the new.