A Parting Gift
“What is REAL?” asked the Rabbit one day ...
[Margery Williams Bianco, The Velveteen Rabbit]
“Real isn't how you are made,” said the Skin Horse. “It's a thing that happens to you. When a child loves you for a long, long time, not just to play with, but REALLY loves you, then you become Real.”
“Does it hurt?” asked the Rabbit.
“Sometimes,” said the Skin Horse, for he was always truthful. “When you are Real you don't mind being hurt.”
[Margery Williams Bianco, The Velveteen Rabbit]
Having provided a summer of shade, fresh air and beauty, the little leaf departs in a blaze of glory ... doubtless hoping someone notices.