I can remember in detail a story which was told to me several years ago. A good friend had a son, Ken, who was working for a large grocery store in his area. He was a good high school student as well as worker. One evening my friend was waiting in his car to give his son a ride home after work. The store manager appeared at his car window. He rolled it down. The manager introduced himself and asked if her were Ken’s dad.

He readily admitted he was, not quite knowing what to expect. The manager thrust his hand into the car and shaking hands said: “Congratulations for having such a fine son and such an exceptional worker.

“You know,” the manager continued, “I have to run through about 50 boys before I can find a worker like your son. You should be proud of him!”

My friend was flattered and humbled by the exchange. He told his son about this experience. And told him he should keep this particular character trait alive, as it would benefit him his whole life.

Patrick Henry, a hero of the Revolution, had similar character. He once wrote:

“To be true and just in all my dealings. To bear no malice nor hatred in my heart. To keep my hands from picking and stealing. Not to covet other men’s goods; but to learn and labor truly, to get my own living, and to do my duty in that state of life unto which it shall please God to call me.” That was his heartfelt desire. And he lived up to it!