THE WOODEN BOWL
A
frail old man went to live with his son, daughter-in-law, and four-year
grandson. The old man's hands trembled, his eyesight was blurred, and his step
faltered. The family ate together at the table. But the elderly grandfather's
shaky hands and failing sight made eating difficult. Peas rolled off his spoon
onto the floor. When he grasped the glass, milk spilled on the tablecloth.
The son and daughter-in-law became irritated with the mess. "We must do
something about Grandfather," said the son. "I've had enough of his spilled
milk, noisy eating, and food on the floor". So the husband and wife set a small
table in the corner. There, Grandfather ate alone while the rest of the family
enjoyed their dinners together.
Since Grandfather had broken a dish or two, his food was served in a wooden
bowl. When the family glanced in Grandfather's direction, sometimes he had a
tear in his eye as he sat alone. Still, the only words the couple had for him
were sharp admonitions when he dropped a fork or spilled food.
The four-year-old watched it all in silence. One evening before supper, the
father noticed his son playing with wood scraps on the floor. He asked the child
sweetly, "What are you making?" Just as sweetly, the boy responded, "Oh, I am
making a little bowl for you and Mama to eat your food in when you get old." The
four year old smiled and went back to work.
The words so struck the parents that they were speechless. Then tears started to
stream down their cheeks. Though no word was spoken, both knew what must be
done. That evening the husband took Grandfather's hand and gently led him back
to the family table. For the remainder of his days he ate every meal with the
family. And for some reason, neither husband nor wife seemed to care any longer
when a fork was dropped, milk spilled, or the tablecloth soiled.
I've learned that, regardless of your relationship with your parents, you'll
miss them when they're gone from your life. I've learned that life sometimes
gives you a second chance.
I've learned that if you pursue happiness, it will elude you. But, if you focus
on your family, your friends, the needs of others, your work and doing the very
best you can, happiness will find you.
I've learned that children's eyes observe more than there ears ever hear and the
example we set for them determines their actions.
I've learned that make a "living" is not the same thing as making a "life".
I've learned that every day, you should reach out and touch someone. People love
that human touch -- holding hands, a warm hug, or just a friendly pat on the
back.
I've learned that people will forget what you said ...people will forget what
you did......but people will never forget how you made them feel.
I've learned that life is about people and making a positive difference.
I've learned that you should take care of yourself and those you love - Today
and Everyday!
I've learned I still have a lot to learn!
- Author Unknown
MOTIVATIONAL ARCHIVES:
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