The Smile of the Heart

In a small, sunlit village, lived two boys named Arjun and Leo. Arjun was the life of every party; he always had a bright smile and a joke for everyone. Leo, on the other hand, was quiet and observant. Everyone thought Arjun was the best friend because he was always laughing and cheerful. One summer, Arjun’s family faced a very difficult time and lost much of what they owned. Arjun became very sad and withdrawn. His many 'friends' would come by, smile brightly at him, say, 'Don't worry, buddy!' and then leave to go have fun elsewhere. They smiled with their faces, but not with their hearts. But Leo was different. He didn't come with loud jokes. Instead, he sat quietly beside Arjun during his darkest hours. When Arjun cried, Leo simply held his hand and stayed. He helped Arjun with his chores and shared his own food without being asked. One evening, Arjun asked, 'Leo, why do you stay when everyone else just smiles and leaves?' Leo replied softly, 'A smile on the face is easy, Arjun, but a smile that comes from the heart stays with you through the storm.' Arjun realized then that true friendship isn't about being happy together, but about feeling each other's soul.