The accident took not only her physical strength, but also part of her confidence in the world. Years of recovery have left her with scars, pain and a deep respect for her health. She has learned that there are no miracle cures or quick fixes, even though people often seek them in desperation.
One afternoon, as she watched the world go by through the window, the doorbell rang on her doorstep. It disturbed her thoughts and pulled her back to reality. Slowly, she rose from her chair and opened the door. A young lady stood in front of her with a bright smile and a suitcase in her hand. Her energy was almost infectious, but Branka could see something else in her eyes - something learned, something forced.
"Good afternoon, madam! My name is Maja. I'm here to introduce you to revolutionary nutritional supplements and medical devices that can improve your health forever!" she hurried to explain.
Branka watched the girl carefully. Her quick movements, repetitive phrases and excessive enthusiasm - all this was familiar to her. Not from her own experience as a saleswoman, but as someone who had once fell trapped by similar promises.
"Maja, how long have you been in this business?" asked Branka in a tone that was kind and considerate, but at the same time stern.
"Oh, it's been a while! Years! People are extremely happy and I dare say you will be too!" she replied, opening a suitcase full of shiny bottles and medical devices that promised almost miraculous effects.
Branka took a deep breath. Memories flooded her mind. In that moment, she was that young woman again; wounded, frightened and desperate. Once, someone had promised her a solution, just as Maya had promised her now. She believed, paid and hoped then realised she had been deceived. No one could restore her health, much less her lost savings and trust.
"May," she said calmly, "I'll tell you a story. When I was younger, I was involved in a car accident that left me with, among other things, neuropathic pain. I was scared and desperate to find a solution. Someone promised me Medicationthat was supposed to help me, and I believed it. I gave all my savings, but I never got anything, except the bitter taste of a deceived soul and even more despair."
May looked at Branko in confusion, "But our products are proven and ..."
"Maybe you believe that," Branka interrupted, "or maybe, like I was once, you are just someone trying to survive. But tell me - would you sell these products to your grandmother? Would you promise her that they would solve all her problems?"
Maya blushed and looked away. There was silence for a few moments. Then she took a deep breath and said quietly, "I don't know..."
Branka smiled at her. "Honesty is not always the easiest way, but it is the one that will allow you to sleep soundly. Next time you're standing at someone's door, think about whether you really believe in what you're selling, or whether it's just a continuation of someone else's story who once convinced you of it."
May closed her suitcase, this time more slowly. "Thank you, Mrs Drnovšek. I think I really need to think."
Branka greeted her with a smile and the hope that she had planted a seed of doubt in her heart. Perhaps one day this young lady will choose honesty over false promises.
When she closed the door, she leaned against it and took a deep breath. She felt calm and peaceful, and the old Slovenian proverb echoed in her mind: 'You reap what you sow'. Today, she has sown honesty and integrity which - who knows - may one day bear fruit.
Zala Krupljan, 15. 3. 2025
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