A single penny sat on the table between Ben and Bob. Ben said, “I would like a full breakfast with eggs, bacon, and lots of snacks.” Bob replied, “We only have one coin. That’s not possible.” They sat on a bench, watching cars pass by. Ben said, “I’ll own that car.” Bob said, “Bro, we don’t even have shoes.” Ben looked at his exam script. “Wow, I’m the most brilliant man in the world.” Bob said, “Bro, we got F.” Ben returned to his empty house. It was dark. “Wow, this house is bright and beautiful,” he said. Bob replied, “There’s no electricity or furniture.” Ben looked at the best university and the largest company. “I’ll study there, then I’ll own that company.” Bob said, “Bro, you haven’t even passed JAMB and you have zero capital. Please be realistic.” Years passed. On Ben’s wedding day, everything was bright and beautiful. There was abundance of food. He owned a successful company his family had invested in. He had a convoy of cars, and millions were sprayed at the wedding. Bob, whom he had not seen in years but had invited, arrived. “Congratulations, Ben,” he said. Ben hugged him. “So this is your wedding?” Bob asked. Ben nodded. “Thank you for coming.” Bob shook his head. “But how?” “Faith,” Ben said. “I simply believed.” Bob sighed. “I don’t even have a gift. It was difficult for me to come. I was so embarrassed. Life has been hard for me. I can barely pay rent. I borrowed transport money just to attend this wedding.” “I wish I could have been your best man.” Ben looked at him. “You are my friend. When we had no food, you were with me. When we couldn’t pay rent, you were with me. So say less—eat and be merry.” Then he added: “I will give you one of my houses, one of my cars, and one of my businesses to run.” Bob was shocked. “But I doubted you. I didn’t believe in you.” Ben said, “It doesn’t matter. The fact that you stayed with me in hardship is enough. I shouldn’t enjoy blessings alone.” Your words have power.
