Mina, a young immigrant artist, cared deeply for the small rooftop garden above her apartment in the busy city. The flowers were gleaming in the morning sun, and the scent of fresh herbs filled the air. One day, her elderly neighbor, Mr. Lee, came up hesitantly. "I was wondering if you could help yourself to some of the basil. It’s ready to pick," she said warmly. He smiled, then paused and said, "I’m not so sure I can keep a garden alive, but I’ll give it a try."
Mina laughed gently and said, "You've got this, Mr. Lee. Way to go on deciding to try! If you ask me, gardening is good for you—it brings peace and joy." The old man nodded, feeling hopeful. Mina handed him a small pair of scissors. "Keep it up, and come back anytime. From now on, this rooftop is yours too."
Days passed, and Mina noticed Mr. Lee tending the herbs carefully. One afternoon, he called her over shyly, "With all due respect, I think I might be better at growing tomatoes than basil." Mina grinned, "Noted! Bear with me, I’ll show you some tricks. Sooner or later, you’ll be a pro. Down the road, maybe we can share our harvests at the night market nearby."
That evening, as the sun set, Mr. Lee said, "Good for you, Mina, for creating this space. I see your point about nature calming the soul. Well, have a good one—I'll see you tomorrow." Mina felt a warm glow inside. In that quiet moment, she knew the garden had grown more than just plants; it had grown friendship.