In a quiet suburb, a man named Thomas eagerly awaited his son’s return from a lengthy stint in jail. Over the five years of his son’s absence, Thomas often pondered what path his son would take upon his release. Would he find redemption or fall back into old habits?
Determined to gauge his son’s character, Thomas devised a test. He arranged four items on the dining room table: a bottle of whiskey, a crisp stack of cash, a sleek handgun, and a well-worn Bible.
His wife, Martha, watched with a furrowed brow. “Thomas, what are you planning with these?” she inquired.
With a knowing look, Thomas explained, “It’s a test for our boy. His choice today will reveal his future.”
“If he reaches for the whiskey, he’ll drown his sorrows as an alcoholic.”
“If he chooses the Bible, perhaps he’s found faith and will become a clergyman.”
“If he grabs the gun, fear he might tread the path of a criminal.”
“And if he takes the money, he might aspire to be a shrewd businessman.”
Concealed behind the heavy drapes, Thomas waited with bated breath.
The front door creaked open, and their son, Michael, stepped inside.
His eyes scanned the items on the table. With a sly grin, he uncorked the whiskey and took a hearty gulp, slid the cash into his pocket, tucked the gun into his waistband, and finally, clasped the Bible under his arm.
As Michael strode confidently towards the door, Thomas leaped out from his hiding spot and exclaimed, “Damn it all, the boy’s destined to be a politician!”
