The shoemaker's smile.

Once upon a time there was a shoemaker who started his day the same way every morning: he wiped his table, stroked his old hammer, and said quietly:

- Thank you for helping me today.

His workshop was small, the shoes were old, and people were in a hurry.

But whoever entered his shop not only left with repaired shoes — but also with a lighter step.

Once a boy asked him:

- Uncle, why do you always smile when everyone else is in a hurry and complaining?

The shoemaker put down his hammer and answered:

- Because if I don't smile, the world will be darker for a moment. But if I do — maybe I'll light up someone else with it.

That day the boy went home thoughtful.

And the next day, when his friend forgot to bring a pencil at school, he just smiled — and gave one.

The world became a shade brighter again.