The story that has most impressed me in my life is
The Mouse in the Manger by Rev. Gennaro L. Gentile.
Oscar is the youngest mouse in his family and loves his straw bed very much. However, one winter night he gets into a fight with his father because he wants more straw for his bed. So, he decides to run away. Eventually, he comes to a stable and encounters several different barn animals and attempts to be friends in exchange for straw. However, many of the animals turn him away for various reasons until he befriends a pregnant woman and learns the true meaning of friendship.
While I know the author is no longer a Reverend of the church, I no longer consider myself Catholic, and the story is a bit dated in the stereotypical characterization of some of the stable animals's diction, I have found this to be one of the most touching renditions of the religious branch of the Christmas story without being heavy on the religious angle. I love how realistic Oscar the mouse is. I think all people can relate to Oscar's desire to have what he wants now and wanting to run away and his struggles with trying to make new friends. I also love how in the end he learns the meaning of true friendship and radical generosity.
