GIVING HAND
I am not going to tell another story about helping somebody in need.
Actually it’s very simple. Just about getting to the other side of the street with a young child.
Once upon a time I had to cross a very busy street with the daughter of my neighbors. She was may be four years old. The girl was quite a character and independent minded. To be on the safe side I had tried to take her hand but she refused over and over again. So I decided to pull the authority trick: “Give me your hand!”
Answer came like an attack: “I don’t give you my hand!” It was a surprising reply I had not expected.
But I was in hurry. The street was full with cars. There was no time for discussions.
I realized the girl had a good reason for her stubbornness. The intonation of her voice sounded that it was not about caprices but about matter of principles. That caught me by surprise, remember, a four year old girl.
So I made a generous offer: “Take my hand!” with the accent on “take”. At the same time I extended my hand and the young lady grabbed it swiftly.
And peacefully we crossed the street.