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 they were able to give 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 theatre built in the
house."
The third said, "I had my friend's father (ah Ngah) deliver an souped up honda intergra da1 to her."
The fourth said, "You know how Mama loved reading the Bible and you know
she can't read anymore because she can't see very well. I met this
preacher who told me about a parrot that can recite the entire Bible. It
took twenty preachers 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 and I have my groceries
delivered, so I never use the Mercedes. The thought was good. Thanks."
"Michael, you gave me an expensive theatre with Dolby sound. It could
hold 50 people, but all of 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."
Love
Mama
