A woman asked an old man: "How much do you sell these eggs for?" The old seller replied: "0.50 cents per egg, lady.
The woman thought for a moment and then said, "I'll take six eggs, but how about you give them to me for $2 instead of $3? After all, I'm buying in bulk."
The old man hesitated but then smiled softly and replied, "Lady, these eggs are fresh from my farm, and I sell them at a very fair price. But, since you insist, I’ll sell them to you for $2."
The woman paid $2, took her eggs, and left, feeling like she had struck a good deal. As she walked away, she noticed the old man slowly counting his money, a small but contented smile on his face.
Later that day, the woman went to a fancy restaurant with her friends. They ordered various dishes, including a luxurious omelet. When the bill came, she noticed they charged $5 for a single omelet. Without hesitation, she paid the bill, even tipping generously.
As she walked out of the restaurant, it dawned on her how she had haggled over a mere $1 with the old man who needed the money more, yet didn’t question paying much more at a fancy establishment.
She returned to the old man the next day. "Sir, I'm sorry for undervaluing your hard work yesterday. Here is the $1 I owe you," she said, handing him a small note.
The old man smiled, his eyes shining with understanding. "Lady, you owe me nothing. It’s a blessing to be kind to each other, and your visit is payment enough. Always remember, people like me survive not because we make a lot, but because of people like you who care."
This story is often used to remind us to consider the value of fairness and to recognize the efforts and needs of those who work hard for their livelihood, often in challenging circumstances. It encourages empathy, respect, and the importance of supporting each other in a community.
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