Podgorica, a chilly autumn afternoon. Two friends, Dejan and Elena, were sitting at a small café table in front of the magnificent Church of the Resurrection of Christ. Their coffee was slowly cooling as they talked, surrounded by the silence emanating from the church and the warmth of sincere friendship.
“When I look at this church,” Dejan said, gazing at the imposing dome, “I think about how everything here was built with intention, with the reciprocity of builders, artists, and even donors. Without that harmony, this perfection wouldn’t exist. And we, as people, often forget that reciprocity is the foundation of everything that lasts.”
Elena smiled and nodded.“That’s exactly right, Dejan. People rely too much on control, on manipulation, thinking it will make it easier to achieve their goals. But manipulation creates pressure, and pressure eventually turns into cracks. Reciprocity is like a bridge—each stone supports the next. Without one, the entire structure collapses.”
Dejan thought for a moment before adding:“I remember an example from my own life. When I was opening a restaurant in America, I could have been a dictator—demanding perfection without compromise. But I realized that if I treated the chefs, waiters, even suppliers, with respect and trust, I got much more in return. People give their best when they feel respected.”
Elena recalled her own experience and gently continued:“I remember working with a group of young women a few years ago, who were trying to start their own business. One of them always tried to take charge, to make decisions for everyone. At first, it looked promising, but as soon as they hit their first obstacle, everything fell apart. Only when they learned to listen to each other and share responsibility did their small business begin to grow.”
Dejan nodded, his gaze once again fixed on the church.“It’s interesting how life teaches us through examples. It’s the same in construction—every beam, every wall has to be in balance with the entire structure. When building a bridge, you can’t force one part and neglect another. That’s why reciprocity is precise. It’s not just a principle; it’s a law of nature.”
Elena spoke softly, as if thinking out loud:“I’ve been reflecting on how reciprocity is key in everyday life, too. If we listened to each other more carefully, everything would be easier. Instead of competing, we could cooperate. And it’s not just a business philosophy; it’s a way of life. Whenever we act out of mutual respect, we create a space where everyone gains as much as they give.”
Dejan smiled, pleased with the tone of their conversation.“And in the long run, that’s the only way relationships can endure. Manipulation is a short-term tactic. I remember a business partner who relied on manipulation for everything. At first, it seemed like he was successful, but over time, people saw through him and distanced themselves. In the end, he was left alone, without trust, without collaborators.”
“That’s why reciprocity builds bridges, while manipulation leaves ruins,” Elena said warmly. “I think the most beautiful moments in life are those we share freely, with understanding and support. Like this one—sitting here, talking, and both of us gaining something valuable.”
Dejan nodded and raised his coffee cup.“Yes, exactly. That’s the essence. Reciprocity isn’t just correct—it’s the path to inner peace, lasting success, and happiness. And you know what? I think we should toast to that. To the bridges we build with one another.”
Elena raised her cup with a smile.“To bridges—and to those who know how to recognize them.”
The sound of church bells filled the air as the two toasted to the simplicity and depth of their friendship. Their gaze returned to the beautiful church, a symbol of harmony and reciprocity.
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