Robins

The night when Jesus was born was so cold and chilly that Mary was unable to keep Jesus warm in the stable. The wind blew constantly into the stable and the fire was about to go out. Mother Mary was worried and asked the animals in her stable for help. First she asked the ox to blow on the embers so that the fire continued. But the ox was fast asleep and couldn't hear  Mary's cry for help. Next, she asked the donkey, horse and the sheep, but in vain. Mary had lost hope, but she was surprised when she heard the continuous flapping of a bird's wings. The bird was none other than the robin. Seeing Mary's helplessness, he decided to help her keep the stable warm. So, he flapped his wings rigorously at the dying embers and fetched some dry sticks for the fire. This stopped the fire from going out completely but the flame that rose suddenly, burnt the little bird's breast and turned it red. Despite getting hurt, the bird continued his efforts to keep the fire going, just to keep the stable warm for infant Jesus. Mary was so moved by the kind gesture of this little bird that she blessed the bird in the morning, saying that "From now on, let your red breast be a reminder of your good deed". 

There are many variations to this story of robin and one is associated with Christ's crucifixion. In this version, while Jesus was dying on the cross, a robin flew near him and sang in order to ease the pain. Lord Jesus was bleeding so badly that a drop of his blood fell on the robin's chest resulting in the red breast. Thereafter, all robins were born with this and hence the name Redbreast Robin.

Thus, the story of robin explains that hard work and determination are the keys to success, no matter how weak you are. It also tells you that selflessness is a virtue that never goes unnoticed.