It was an ordinary morning in the neighborhood as usual. The grocery store was opening its shutters, the bagel seller was calling, people were trying to get to work. However, a strange crowd had gathered in front of the bank. The reason was quite unusual: A gray, serious-looking elephant with a tie was in the queue for the cash machine.
No one said anything, but everyone was turning around and looking at the giant trunk of the elephant. He came with a plastic card in his hand, perhaps to withdraw his pension. Maybe his name was Feridun, he used to work in a circus, then retired, and now he would come to the ATM on the 15th of every month and stand in line. He would neither compromise his politeness nor break the queue. As the queue progressed, people would smile at first and then get used to it.
Behind Feridun was an old lady, and behind her was a young couple. Everyone was silent, but at the same time, they were secretly wondering: "Is he going to key in the PIN code with his trunk?" saying. Finally it was his turn. He approached slowly, extended his trunk and inserted his card. He followed the instructions on the screen carefully, pressing the buttons with his huge trunk. Then he took the money, swiped his card, turned, nodded politely and walked away.
Everyone was surprised but also impressed. Because that morning, everyone learned one thing: Waiting in line is a virtue, whether you are a human or an elephant.
