2. The Turquoise Necklace

3. The salesman behind the counter was looking absentmindedly towards the street while a little girl approached the store. She stuck her little nose against the glass of the spectacular showcase and, suddenly, her honey colored eyes shone when she saw a particular item on display.

4. She marched right into the jewelry store and asked the salesman to show her that magnificent turquoise necklace that had caught her attention. She said: “It's for my sister. Could you gift wrap it for me?”

5. The store owner, who was also present, looked at the girl with certain apprehension and calmly asked her: “How much money do you have, little one?” Without batting an eye the girl took out from a pocket a small bundled up handkerchief secured by several knots which she, one by one, carefully undid. When she was finished, she proudly placed the little handkerchief on the counter and calmly said: “...This is enough, isn't it?”

6. Looking at the owner with a mixed expression of hope and sadness, said: “You know, since our mother died, my sister has taken care of me with much love and she never has any time for her own....” There were just a few coins on the extended handkerchief...

7. “Today is her birthday and I am sure that this necklace will make her very happy because it is just the color of her eyes...” The salesman looked at the owner without knowing what to do or say. The owner just smiled at the little girl, went to the back and personally wrapped the necklace in a spectacular silver like paper placing a beautiful bow made with a turquoise colored ribbon.

8. As the salesman watched in disbelief, the owner placed the beautiful package in a bag bearing the jewelry store name and gave it to the girl while saying: “Here - take it to your sister with care.” The little girl left the store happily skipping down the street.

9. The day was not over yet when a charming young lady with golden hair and marvelous turquoise colored eyes walked in the store. She placed the unwrapped gift upon the counter and asked:

10. The salesman courteously asked her to wait for a moment and then called the owner, who immediately came out and, with a most respectful smile, said: “Was this necklace purchased here?” “Yes, Miss, this necklace is one of the special pieces of our exclusive collection and, as a matter of fact, was bought here this morning.” “How much did it cost?” “I am sorry to inform you, Miss, that I cannot share that information with you. It is our policy to treat the price of a purchase as a confidential matter between the customer and the store.”

11. The man took the case, wrapped it again - almost ceremoniously - and with great care placed again the ribbon with the bow. Gave it back to the young lady while saying... “...But my sister only had a few coins that she had collected selling rag dolls made with old clothing since my salary is very modest and it barely helps us survive. This necklace certainly is not custom jewelry and she simply could not have had enough money to pay it with....!

12. A profound silence filled the store.... she took the package into her hands and slowly walked out of the store, pressing it against her chest. “She paid the highest price anyone could possibly pay: She gave all that she had”

13. “If one day you have to choose between the world and love, remember: If you choose the world you’ll be left without love, but if you choose love, with it you will conquer the world.” Anon.