"Treat others how you want to be treated."

"Treat others how you want to be treated."

"The Ferryman and the Old Boat"

---

Once upon a time, in a small village by a vast river, there lived a kind-hearted ferryman named Thanh. Thanh was well-known not only for his dedication to his work but also for his fairness and kindness towards everyone. Every day, he rowed his small boat back and forth across the river, carrying villagers, goods, and cargo from dawn till dusk.

Though Thanh's boat was old and no longer as new as before, he took great care of it. Thanh believed that even though the boat was just a tool for his work, it deserved love and maintenance. He always cleaned and checked the boat’s parts to ensure it was safe for his passengers.

One day, a stranger from a distant village arrived. The stranger looked at Thanh’s old boat with disdain. “Your boat is so old. I don’t believe it can take us across the river safely,” the stranger said disrespectfully.

Thanh merely smiled and said, “Even though the boat is old, I take good care of it. I will get you across the river safely.” That day, Thanh rowed the boat across the river as usual, while the stranger remained skeptical.

During the journey, Thanh chatted with the stranger and shared some stories and experiences. The stranger gradually felt the sincerity and kindness of Thanh. After reaching the other side, the stranger thanked Thanh and even praised his careful maintenance of the boat.

A few weeks later, the stranger encountered Thanh again on his boat. This time, the stranger was not only polite but also helped Thanh repair some parts of the boat. He brought along some tools and materials to help renew the boat. Thanh was very grateful and invited the stranger to have a meal with him as a thank you.

The stranger shared that Thanh’s actions and attitude had made him realize the value of respect and kindness. He said, “I realized that my treatment of your boat did not reflect the respect it deserved. I’ve learned that the way I treat others is how I want to be treated.”

Thanh smiled and said, “Exactly. The law of karma works that way. When you treat others well, you also receive goodness in return. I believe that how we treat everything around us reflects who we are.”

From then on, the stranger changed his perspective and how he treated those around him. He became a better person, often helping others and treating everyone with respect and sincerity. He noticed that when he treated others with respect and kindness, he received the same in return from them.

As for Thanh, he continued his work with the same kindness and dedication as before. He not only took care of his boat but also cared for the people he met every day. He knew that his actions not only affected those around him but also reflected who he was.

The story of Thanh and the stranger inspired many in the village and neighboring communities. It reminded everyone of the value of treating others as one would want to be treated. The law of karma is not just an abstract principle but an essential part of how we build relationships and communities.

Gradually, the village where Thanh lived became known for the kindness and respect among its people. They learned that when everyone practiced this principle, life became better, and each individual received respect and kindness from those around them.

**Conclusion:**

The story of Thanh and the stranger is a vivid illustration of the proverb “Treat others how you want to be treated.” It shows that our actions and attitudes not only affect others but also reflect who we are. When we treat others with kindness and respect, we create a positive environment and receive the same in return from the community around us.