“A friend loves at all times” Proverbs 17:17
Ike and Ifẹ were good friends. They lived on the same street. In fact, there was just one house between their parents’ houses. They went to the same school, Victory Elementary School. Sometimes their parents even carpooled. They were also in the same grade and sometimes read together after school. They both loved sports and liked to compete in running.
Their class had a running competition with a trophy for the winner. Ike and Ifẹ practiced and looked forward to the day with excitement and enthusiasm. When the day came for the class competition, Ike came first, and he won the trophy.
Ifẹ went home sad because he did not win the trophy. He remained in his room and did not come out to eat, play, or even watch television. His mother tried to cheer him up, but he would not respond.
Ike was happy that he won, but not totally happy, because his friend Ifẹ was not around for them to play as usual. So, what did Ike do? He put the trophy in a bag and went to Ifẹ’s house, but Ifẹ refused to come out of his room. Ike went into his room and said, “I feel bad that you did not win, but remember, we are friends. Now, how would you feel if you won and I did not rejoice with you?”
Ifẹ thought for a moment and said, “I would not be totally happy.” Ike said, “That is how I am feeling right now.”
Ifẹ cheered up and rejoiced with Ike. Ike then brought the trophy out of the bag and said, “The trophy will stay with you for a week and will come to me the following week.” They started to play together again as before.
Just like our eyes see and cry together, true friends laugh together when one succeeds and cry together when one is sad. Are you a true friend?