An old man wanted to retire because of his poor health. The (1) was deciding which son would take his place. As his children gathered to (2) his birthday, the father announced his (3) .The old man took out two boxes and said to his two sons. “ Each of you take one. I want each of you to (4) it with what you believe to be the most (5) thing for our successful business. (6) your choices, I will decide who will take (7) my business,” father said. The next days the family and employees could sense the spirit of (8) between the boys.
It was January 1st and the family (9) to celebrate again. “ Please (10) with me what’s in your box! ” father said. The first son said, “ It’s outside on the back of truck. The box you gave me was much too (11) . ” father walked to the window and from that distance could see all. With a deep tone of (12) , he asked the other son, “ What do you have to give? ” The son (13) his father the box. The old man looked inside and with great (14) looked up at his son. “ It’s (15) ! ” father said. “Are you telling me that you have found nothing of value in our business?
“ (16) , ” he said. “ What I sound most valuable I could not place in a box. How does one measure the value of quality and honesty? What size box would (17) the loyalty of our employees and customers? How big of a room would I need for our workers who have (18) from our generous pay and health plan? Finally, father, the most valuable possessions I (19) hold are the love of you and mother.”
It was (20) what decision was made that day. There will come a time when each of us will be asked by our father to share what we value most. I hope your box is empty.