I had a friend with whom I had traveled for years, shared meals, and established deep bonds of companionship. In the end, for the sake of a small personal gain, he caused me heartache, and our friendship ended. Yet, there was still affection from both sides. I heard that one day, in a gathering, they were reciting two verses of my poetry:
When my beloved enters with a charming smile,
It adds salt to the wounds of the wounded.
What would it be like if I could grasp the locks of her hair,
Like a beggar grasping the sleeve of the generous?
The group of dervishes praised the beauty of the verse, not only because of its eloquence but also for the nature of their own graciousness. He, too, exaggerated in praising the lines, regretted the loss of our old friendship, and admitted his mistake. I realized that there was a desire from his side as well, so I sent these verses and we reconciled:
There was no breach between us in loyalty and faith,
Yet you wronged me and broke your promise.
I had entrusted my heart to you alone in this world,
Not knowing that you would turn away so quickly.
If you still seek reconciliation, return,
For you will be more beloved than you were before.
