Whether or not we keep the promises we make to others reveals the kind of people we truly are. Sadly, there are times when we fail to keep our word, and while it may not seem significant to us, it can shatter someone’s heart and diminish their faith in humanity.
The following story serves as a reminder to never make a promise unless we are absolutely certain we can keep it.
One day, a wealthy man noticed an elderly homeless man sitting out in the cold. Feeling a pang of sympathy, he decided to approach him.
“I see you don’t have a winter coat. Aren’t you cold?” he asked.
The old man stared at him for a moment before replying, “I don’t have one, but I’m used to it.”
The rich man was both surprised and saddened by the response. He said warmly, “Wait here! I’m going home to get you a thick coat to keep you warm at night.”
The homeless man’s face lit up with joy. He couldn’t believe that someone had taken the time to offer him such kindness.
But when the wealthy man returned home, he became distracted by his own affairs and forgot all about the promise he had made. It wasn’t until the next morning that he remembered. Panicked, he grabbed the coat and rushed outside to find the elderly man.
Unfortunately, it was too late. The old man was no longer there. Instead, the rich man found a note left behind. It read:
“When I didn’t have a warm coat, I found the strength to endure the cold because I was used to it. But when you promised to help me, I clung to that promise, and it took away my strength to resist.”
The elderly man had passed away, and the realization devastated the rich man.
This story is a poignant reminder that promises are not to be taken lightly. They can hold immense meaning for someone in need, and breaking them can have consequences far greater than we may ever realize.