Old Zhang is a bicycle repairman who has run a repair shop on this street for decades. His craftsmanship is superb, and he is known for his honesty. When the neighbors’ bikes break down, they all love to bring them to him for repairs.

One day, just as Old Zhang was preparing to close his shop, a young man hurriedly pushed over a tricycle, sweating profusely. “Master, please take a quick look at my bike. It suddenly started leaning while I was riding it, and I almost fell off!”

Old Zhang put down his tools and carefully inspected the tricycle. He found that the U-bolt connecting the cart body and the frame had loosened. While tightening the bolt, he said to the young man, “Young fellow, you haven’t been holding back on hauling goods with this bike, have you? The U-bolt has loosened. You need to pay more attention; otherwise, it could easily lead to an accident.”

The young man scratched his head, embarrassed. “Yes, master. I rely on this bike to earn money by hauling goods. I didn’t pay much attention to its maintenance. Thanks for reminding me.”

Old Zhang smiled and said thoughtfully, “This U-bolt, don’t underestimate its small size; it plays a crucial role. It’s like a human joint, connecting the cart body and the frame. If it loosens or breaks, the whole bike will fall apart. So, you need to check it often and tighten or replace it when necessary. You can’t be careless.”

The young man nodded repeatedly, promising to be more careful in the future.

Old Zhang then took out a few new U-bolts and handed them to the young man. “Take these as spares. In case one breaks down some day, you can replace it yourself.”

The young man gratefully accepted the bolts, paid for the repair, and left with his fixed tricycle.

Watching the young man’s departing figure, Old Zhang couldn’t help but think of his own youth. Back then, he also had a tricycle, relying on it to travel through the streets and alleys, supporting his family. That tricycle accompanied him through his toughest years and witnessed his transformation from a young man to an old one.

“This U-bolt, just like life, may seem insignificant but is crucial,” Old Zhang murmured to himself. “Only by doing well in every detail can one’s life journey proceed steadily.”

As the sun set, Old Zhang packed up his tools and closed the door of his repair shop. He believed that tomorrow, even more people would come to him for repairs, and he would continue to serve each customer with his superb craftsmanship and sincere attitude.