A Small Gift

7 A Small Gift There once was a young man who had just graduated from university. He was hoping to get a very nice gift from his parents. When he graduated from high school, he got a watch. So he expected that his university gift would be even bigger. He was hoping that he might even get a car. Even an old, used car would be perfect. He gave many hints to his parents about it. The day of his graduation finally came. That night, his father called the young man into the living room. He said, “ Son, you know how I would read you stories from your favourite book when you were a little boy? Well, it took me days of searching, but I finally found that book. I've got it cleaned, fixed up and a new cover put on it. Maybe one day you can give it to your son. " The father had a tear in his eye as he hugged his son.

The young man, who loved his father very much, suddenly felt horrible. He could see that he was just being greedy by hoping for an expensive graduation gift. To his father, this small gift had more meaning than all the riches in the world. " Thank you, Dad, " he said sincerely. “ It's a great gift. And you're right. Maybe one day I will give it to my son or daughter. " He had learned a great lesson. The family had a wonderful dinner together. After the meal, they sat around the table and the young man read stories to the family. His mother said with a smile, “ You know, my favourite story is the last one in the book. Please read that one. " The young man flipped to the back of the book. Suddenly, his face went blank. He was totally shocked. Taped to the back cover was a car key! It was the key to a used car -not a new one-but it didn't matter to the son. The lesson he learned that day made him appreciate it even more.