The Selfless Taker

Karim was locking the door of his apartment to set off to work when he heard the usual greeting from one of his neighbors.

“Good morning,sir.”

“Good morning,” he said politely, looking at his neighbor who bore a smile on his face.

The neighbor came near to him and added: ” I hope you are doing well, sir.”

“I am well,” Karim answered and worried about getting involved in any conversation that might make him waste some minutes he couldn’t spare.

“Happy to hear that,” his neighbor went on.

“Thank you,” Karim said, expecting some question or request from his neighbor who never had exceeded the usual exchanging of greetings.

“Can I ask you a question, sir?” His neighbor asked politely.

“Yes, go ahead!”

“Whenever we meet, it is I who always takes the initiative of greeting. Do I impose my greetings on you?”

“Absolutely no. On the contrary, you make me feel happy and spread some positive vibes. I appreciate it a lot, sir. I don’t know why you asked me such a question!”

“I asked that question because I felt some embarrassment and I want to clarify things.”

” I see. I have to admit that your question is so sensible that I have to present my point of view. In fact, I know well how happy and positive you feel when you greet people in the morning. I am aware of the positive energy you draw when you do that. It shows that you are a giver since you spontaneously say your greetings without expecting a slight reward from the others. For me you are a pure giver, and if one thinks deep, one finds out that a giver is the super taker. And I want you to stay that selfless taker.”

The face of his neighbor shone and a broad smile invaded his face. He simply said: “I got your piece of wisdom, sir and I promise to keep the habit. Have a nice day.”