Our promises reflect our character. When we fail to honor them, we risk breaking someone’s heart or causing them to lose faith in humanity. It’s vital to commit only when we are certain we can follow through.
This story exemplifies the importance of keeping promises, especially when others are relying on us.
One chilly evening, a wealthy man noticed an elderly homeless gentleman huddled against the biting cold. The scene tugged at his heart, prompting him to walk over and speak with him.
“I see you’re without a winter coat; aren’t you cold?” the rich man inquired. The old man gazed at him briefly, then replied, “I am, but I’ve grown accustomed to it.” Struck by the old man’s resilience and hardship, the wealthy individual made a hasty pledge: “Hold on! I’m going to my house right now, and I’ll return with a thick coat to keep you warm this night.”
The elderly man was elated, his heart uplifted by this stranger’s kindness and promise of warmth.
Regrettably, once inside his warm home, the affluent man forgot about his promise. It wasn’t until the next morning that he remembered and hurried outside, coat in hand, eager to find the old man. To his dismay, the gentleman was gone, leaving behind a sorrowful note: “Without a thick coat, I had the strength to endure the cold, for I was used to it. But when you promised to help, I relied on your words, which took away my power to resist.”
The news of the man’s death devastated the rich man, shaking his world.
This tale reminds us that promises should be treated as sacred bonds, especially for those in need; they can be as life-giving as they are binding.