My Favorite Chinese Myth: A Bite-Sized English Version

Growing up in a multicultural household, I was always fascinated by the diverse stories and legends from around the world. Among them, Chinese mythology has left an indelible mark on my imagination. One of my favorite tales is that of Chang'e, the moon goddess.

In ancient China, there lived a young couple named Chang'e and her husband Houyi. They were both archers renowned for their exceptional skills. However, Houyi's ambition soon led him to become overly obsessed with his craft. He became so absorbed in his work that he neglected Chang'e.

One day, during a lunar eclipse when the gods descended upon Earth to witness human affairs, Houyi decided to challenge them with his arrows. He aimed at nine suns orbiting Earth and managed to shoot down eight of them using his divine bow and arrow given by the gods.

Impressed by his feat, the Jade Emperor offered him immortality as a reward but asked him not to live among humans anymore since they could no longer bear seeing him grow old while they remained mortal. Despite this warning, Houyi chose to remain on Earth with Chang'e instead of ascending to heaven.

Chang'e grew tired of her husband's neglect due to his obsession with immortality and eventually drank an elixir meant for eternal life without knowing its consequences. The elixir sent her flying into space where she landed on the moon after falling from great heights due to her transformation into an immortal being.

Heartbroken over losing her beloved wife who had ascended into celestial realms while he remained mortal below in human form - now unable even share meals together - Houyi became deeply sorrowful until one day he followed suit after consuming another elixir meant for immortality himself; thus becoming immortal too but still living among mortals out of love for Chang'e who was banished forever onto another celestial body far away (the Moon).

The story teaches us about unrequited love which transcends time as well as mortality itself through this beautiful tale set amidst ancient myths & legends filled with magic & adventure!