Once there was a man by the name of Abbas the Great, Shah of Persia. He would frequently disguise himself in order to mingle with ordinary people.
Whenever he visited the public baths, he would spend time with the old man who stoked the fires. They became great friends. The disguised Shah would sit and chat with the old man for hours on end. They would share their food, their thoughts, and their feelings.
One day, the Shah revealed his true identity. He said, “I am that Shah. I have been with you, often, and I have come to appreciate you. Ask whatever you desire and I will give it to you.”
The old fire keeper said, “You have eaten my food, rejoiced when I rejoiced, wept when I wept, and shared my burdens. I want nothing but your continued friendship, your concern, and your understanding. All I really want in life is someone who understands me.”