“A need brings back the absent and reunites old companions” (Palestinian–Jordanian dialect) There was a man named Abu Khaled who had lived in the neighborhood for many years. He was known for his kind heart and for never refusing to help anyone. He had a cousin named Sami, whom he hadn’t seen or heard from in more than six years. Sami never checked in on him, never called on holidays, and never even stopped by to visit. Eventually, Abu Khaled got used to his absence. One day, the phone suddenly rang. Abu Khaled answered: “Hello?” It was Sami. In a warm and affectionate voice, he said: “My friend! Where have you been all this time? We’ve really missed you!” Abu Khaled was surprised, but he replied politely: “Thank God, I’m doing well.” Sami kept talking about family ties and affection, and after about ten minutes, he finally got to the point: “By the way… I heard you know the bank manager. I need a small favor.” At that moment, Abu Khaled understood exactly why Sami had called. Two days later, Sami visited his house for the first time in years. He brought sweets, greeted everyone warmly, and kept saying: “There’s nothing more valuable than family.” Abu Khaled’s wife sat quietly, listening. After Sami left, she asked her husband: “Since when did he suddenly remember you?” Abu Khaled laughed and said: “Since the day he needed something.” A week later, the favor Sami wanted was taken care of. And from that day on… he disappeared again. No phone calls, no visits, not even a message. Several months passed, and Abu Khaled happened to run into him at the market. He greeted him and jokingly said: “So, Sami… did your business get sorted out?” Sami’s face turned red, and he didn’t know what to say. Abu Khaled shook his head and said: “My friend… a need brings back the absent and reunites old companions.” Meaning of the proverb The proverb “A need brings back the absent and reunites old companions” is usually said as a form of gentle criticism or sarcasm when someone has been absent for a long time, never checks in or stays in touch, and then suddenly reappears only because they need a favor or have something to gain. It is like saying: “It’s pretty clear that you only remembered us when you needed something.”