Amidst a gathering of friends, Noel listens indifferently as an absent man is being discussed in a bad light. Inwardly, he feels this is wrong but says nothing. Only later will he realize that he too will one day be the absent man.
Tobi has observed his girlfriend’s rudeness on a few occasions but he dismisses it. He takes no strong action against it but remains hopeful that she will eventually see her error and overcome this weakness. Only later will he realize that he too will one day become the victim of her rudeness.
Mr. Jacobs is retiring his post as CEO next year and needs to decide on a successor. Helen does her job quietly and excellently. James on the other hand is ostentatious in speech. Mr Jacobs perceives elements of conceit but ignores his concern; he favors James. He opts for flash over substance and will later watch his company crumble on account of his poor judgement.
To the discerning spirit, the present reveals all a man needs to know about his fellow human beings in order to avoid future misfortune. He only need pay close attention.