It was a cold, snowy morning in a small village in Kashmir. The mountains were covered with white snow, and the trees sparkled like they were wearing jewels. The 10-year-old Amina sat near the window of her house, looking at the beautiful valley. But her heart was heavy.  
“Ami, why do we celebrate Kashmir Day?” she asked her mother, who was sitting beside her, knitting a warm scarf. Her mother smiled and put her hand on Amina’s shoulder. She said: “Kashmir Day is a reminder of our struggle for freedom, my dear! Let me tell you a story about our beautiful land.”  
Amina sat close to her mother, eager to listen. And her mother started telling the story: “Many years ago, Kashmir was a peaceful place where people lived happily. They grew crops, sang songs, and celebrated festivals together. The rivers were full of fish, and the mountains were home to many animals. It was truly a paradise on earth.”  
“But one day,” she continued, “everything changed. A big dispute started over Kashmir, and it became a place of conflict. Soldiers came, and people lost their homes and loved ones. Our land was divided, and since then, the people of Kashmir have been waiting for freedom. They want to live without fear and decide their future on their own.”  
Amina looked at her mother with wide eyes, and asked: “Why hasn’t it happened? Why can't we be free?” Her mother sighed, and replied: “It is a long and difficult journey, Amina! But every year, on February 5th, we celebrate Kashmir Day to remind the world of our struggle. It is a day to pray for peace, remember the sacrifices of our people, and hope for a better tomorrow.”
Just then, Amina’s father walked in, carrying a small flag of Kashmir. “Come, Amina,” he said. “Today is Kashmir Day. We are going to the village square to join the prayers and show our support.”  
Amina jumped up with excitement. “I want to come too! I want to show everyone that I care about Kashmir’s freedom.”
At the village square, many people had gathered. They were holding flags and banners that said, “We Want Freedom” and “Peace for Kashmir.” Amina felt proud to be part of that gathering. The village elder gave a speech, saying: “Kashmir is our home, and we will never give up hope. Together, we will work for a day when our children can live in peace and happiness.”
After the prayers, Amina and her parents walked back home. She looked at the beautiful valley and thought, “One day, Kashmir will be free. One day, we will all live in peace.”  
From that day, Amina promised herself that she would always remember the importance of Kashmir Day and share its message of hope and freedom with others.  
And so, the people of Kashmir continued their struggle, united in their dream of peace, justice, and freedom. Kashmir Day became a symbol of their hope and determination, inspiring everyone to stand together for a brighter future.