Kevin is standing outside the school gate on a warm Tuesday afternoon. He has already waited for his best friend, Andy, for almost thirty minutes. Andy said he would arrive at three o'clock, but it is already three thirty. Kevin checks his watch again and lets out a long sigh.
Kevin has sent Andy three text messages already, but Andy has not replied yet. He has stood near the gate since the school bell rang, and his legs are beginning to feel tired. He finds a low step to sit on and stares at his phone. He starts to wonder if something has happened to Andy.
Just then, Andy runs around the corner, waving both hands in the air. "Sorry, sorry! I still haven't finished my report," Andy says, still catching his breath. "The teacher added extra questions at the last minute, and I have just turned them in." He bends forward and puts his hands on his knees.
Kevin shakes his head slowly and then laughs. He has been a little angry since Andy arrived late, but the feeling quickly goes away. They have been close friends since their first year of primary school, so Kevin knows Andy does not do it on purpose. "I understand, but next time, please send me a message first!" Kevin says with a smile.
Since that Tuesday, the two boys have made a simple agreement: always tell your friend if you are going to be late. It is a small habit, but it has already helped them avoid a lot of trouble. They have not had any problems with waiting since they started following this agreement.