SOLE SEARCH

Tekley darted along the narrow passage between the high walls of the cathedral and the rock face. He knew the path well and could almost run it with his eyes closed.
As Tekley rounded the corner, some tourists were already making their way up the narrow stairs.
Others were putting on their shoes. Tekley frantically looked from one pair of shoes to the next. None of them were “his” five finger outlet.
Tekley’s eyes fell on Nahmen, sitting by the door. In his hands Nahmen held brown shoes-his brown shoes. Tekley hurried over to him.five finger shoes“Excuse me, Mr. Nahmen,” Tekley said, “Somehow our shoes have gotten switched. My ferengi had brown shoes, and these are black.”
Nahmen looked down at the shoes, trying hard to focus. He handed the shoes to Tekley just as the owner stepped into the bright sunlight.
“Here are your shoes, Sir,” Tekley said, handing them to the man. Before he could back away, the man placed a pile of coins in his hand. Tekley could not believe his eyes. Four birr!
“Ame ssaga nalehugn!” Tekley said excitedly in Amharic. Quickly he changed to English. “Thank you very much, Sir.”StrumpfhosenHe looked down at the coins. It was exactly the amount he needed to cover his school fees next term. Jesus, thank You for answering my prayer!
PERFECT PAIR
Tekley turned to old Nahmen. The man leaned on his walking stick, struggling to get up. Tekley helped him. Together they walked back to the cathedral entrance.
Tekley held out his coins.
“Look at the tip my ferengi gave me. It’s the biggest I’ve ever gotten!” Now I have enough to pay my school fees.” He paused and said, “What did your ferengi give you?”
Nahmen reached into his pocket and pulled out a single birr.
Tekley felt bad for asking. The two walked in silence.
I wish I could help Mr. Nahmen, he thought. Suddenly Tekley had an idea.
“Mr. Nahmen,” he said, “when the next ferengi come, why don’t we work together? I have sharp eyes. I can help you.”
Old Nahmen smiled. He touched Tekley on the shoulder.
“That’s a fine idea,” he said. “I can show you everything I’ve learned about being a good shoe keeper. We’ll use your eyes and my knowledge.”DamenSockenThat evening as he headed for home, Tekley felt warm. Thank You, Jesus, he prayed, for helping me find the right shoes and providing for school. And thank You for a friend like Mr. Nahmen