Three brothers left home for university and later in life became successful businessmen. Some years later, they chatted about their successes and discussed the gifts they could give their elderly mother who lived in another city.

Milton, the first son said, “I had a big house built for Mama”.

Marvin, the second son said, “I had an expensive theatre built in the house”.

Melvin, the third son said, “You know how Mamma loved reading the Bible but she can’t anymore because she can’t see very well. Well, I met this preacher who told me about a parrot that can recite the entire bible. It took 20 preachers 12 years to teach him. I had to pledge to contribute $100,000 a year for 20 years to the church, but it was worth it. Mamma just has to name the chapter and verse and the parrot will recite it”.

The other brothers were impressed.

After the holidays the mother sent out her thank you notes.

She wrote: “Milton, the house you built is so huge I live in only one room, but I have to clean the whole house. Thanks anyway.

“Michael, you gave me an expensive theatre, it could hold 50 people, but all of my friends are dead, I’ve lost my hearing and I’m nearly blind. I’ll never use it. Thank you for the gesture anyway.

“Dearest Melvin, you were the only son to have the good sense to give a little thought to your gift. The chicken was delicious. Thank you!”

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