A young man felt his life was very empty and unhappy. He approached an old man renowned for his wisdom in the community.
“Sir, what must I do to feel happy? I’ve indulged in extravagance and enjoyed all my wealth, but not a single bit of happiness has emerged in my heart,” the young man said.
“Hmm, so you want to be happy, do you? Here, take these loaves of bread and distribute them to the people you meet on the street. Give them to those who look hungry and are in great need,” the old man said, handing him a box full of bread.
“Is that all? That’s too easy,” the young man said, hesitant.
“Just do it, you want to be happy, don’t you?” the old man asserted his instruction. Without another word, the young man left and distributed the loaves of bread to the people he met on the street. Beggars, homeless people, and even street food vendors—he gave bread to all of them because he had plenty in stock. After he finished, he immediately returned to the wise old man.
“Sir, I’ve done everything you told me to, but I don’t feel anything. Where is the happiness?” the young man asked, annoyed.
“Be patient, my son. Starting today, every time you finish your activities, repeat what you just did. Do it for about a week, and you will surely experience something interesting,” the old man said firmly.
“Alright, sir, I will do it.” Despite his doubts, the young man eventually did it. Every day, he bought bread with his own money and distributed it to everyone he met, especially those who appeared hungry. Eventually, the young man became known and liked by the people in his community. Wherever he went, someone would greet him; wherever he was, many beggars, homeless people, and food vendors would strike up conversations with him.
From that moment on, his life no longer felt empty, and he finally experienced happiness. The young man returned to the wise old man to express his gratitude.
“No need to thank me, my son; helping you is also part of my happiness,” the old man said with a smile. In times of joy or sorrow, happiness or sadness, never stop sowing love and kindness. From every seed of love and kindness we sow, a tree named unity will grow, and that tree will bear fruit called happiness.