One day, a man found himself overwhelmed with confusion after a disagreement arose among his close friends and colleagues at work. He no longer knew whom to trust, and after a heated argument, they parted ways. Feeling lost, he sat on a bench in a busy street, his thoughts consumed by uncertainty.
Nearby, an elderly woman was selling a few small items. She noticed his troubled expression and said, “What’s wrong, my dear? You look worried and far from happy.”
He sighed and replied, “I’m so confused. I don’t know how to act or whom to trust.”
The woman nodded and asked, “What is it that’s troubling you?”
The man explained his situation—how he had become uncertain about his friends and struggled to discern who was truly loyal.
The woman smiled knowingly and said, “My dear, why don’t you follow the ‘Salt and Sugar’ rule?”
He raised an eyebrow. “The Salt and Sugar rule? I’ve never heard of it.”
She explained, “Both salt and sugar are white, just like people can appear the same on the surface. But the real difference lies in the taste—the true nature within. Some people, like salt, will leave you in your time of need, while others, like sugar, have a kind heart and will sweeten your days. And then there are those who hide ill intentions beneath their pleasant appearance. Test your friends, and you will see their true nature.”
Intrigued by her words, the man decided to conduct a simple test.
Sometime later, he gathered his friends and said, “I’ve lost all my money, and I have nothing left—not even my home. Is there anyone willing to help me?”
One friend hesitated before saying, “I’ve just invested all my money in a business, so I can’t lend you anything. But don’t worry, I’ll try to find you a job.” Others made excuses, avoiding any commitment.
Then, one final friend stepped forward and said, “I have some money saved for emergencies—take it and start a new project. I’ll be by your side to support you. I could never forget what you did for me when I had nothing.”
The man looked at his friend and finally understood who his true companion was. He remembered the elderly woman’s advice and smiled, knowing he had found his “sugar.”
After some time, he returned to the same spot and saw the woman again. He approached her with a smile and said, “Do you remember me?”
She looked at him and smiled knowingly. “Did you find your sugar, my dear?”
He chuckled. “I never truly knew until I met you. Thank you, Auntie.”
The woman nodded and said, “No need to thank me, son. Life is the greatest teacher. But always remember—every mistake carries a lesson. Choose your companions wisely, for they can either brighten your life or bring you down. Stay vigilant.”
Moral of the Story: True friendship is revealed through actions, not words or appearances. The greatest quality a person can possess is their character, for outward beauty fades, but kindness and integrity endure. Words may be forgotten, but a genuine act of kindness will be remembered forever. Seek out those who truly stand by you, and you will find peace, love, and unwavering support.
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