The Appreciated Gift

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THE APPRECIATED GIFT

Four brothers left home for college, and they became

successful doctors and lawyers and prospered. Some

years later, they chatted after having dinner

together. They discussed the gifts that they were able

to give to their elderly mother who lived far away in

another city.

The first said, "I had a big house built for Mama."

The second said, "I had a hundred thousand dollar

theater built in the house."

The third said, "I had my Mercedes dealer deliver her

an SL600."

The fourth said, "Listen to this. You know how Mama

loved reading the Bible and you know she can't read it

anymore because she can't see very well. I met this

priest who told me about a parrot that can recite the

entire Bible. It took twenty priests 12 years to teach

him. I had to pledge to contribute $100,000 a year for

twenty years to the church, but it was worth it. Mama

just has to name the chapter and verse and the parrot

will recite it."

The other brothers were impressed.

After the holidays Mom sent out her Thank You notes.

She wrote: "Milton, the house you built is so huge. I

live in only one room, but I have to clean the whole

house. Thanks anyway."

"Marvin, I am too old to travel. I stay home, I have

my groceries delivered, so I never use the Mercedes.

The thought was good. Thanks."

"Michael, you give me an expensive theater with Dolby

sound, it could hold 50 people, but all my friends are

dead, I've lost my hearing and I'm

nearly blind. I'll never use it. Thank you for the

gesture just the same."

"Dearest Melvin, you were the only son to have the

good sense to give a little thought to your gift. The chicken was

delicious. Thank you."