The Generous Blacksmith

A blacksmith had a simple code with his neighbors. He began every relationship with generosity — lending tools, sharing ore, helping with repairs.

If a neighbor returned the kindness, the blacksmith continued giving. If a neighbor took without reciprocating, the blacksmith withdrew his help — exactly once. If the neighbor then made amends, the blacksmith forgave immediately and resumed giving.

He was never the first to cheat. He always punished cheating. He always forgave reform.

Over the years, the blacksmith had more friends, more trade, and more prosperity than any other craftsman in the village — not because he was the cleverest, but because his code was clear, fair, and forgiving.