Years ago, a music teacher at a very small countryside school needed a piano for her student. So she decided to send a letter to Henry Ford of Ford Motor Corp. asking for a donation.
“Sir, our school is in need a piano to teach our children. Please help us.”
Some time later, a letter came with $100 only.
Instead of complaining or disappointed that Ford could have given enough money to buy the piano, the teacher decided to buy peanuts with that $100 and do peanut farming. After a few years gone by, she had enough money to buy the piano.
She sent a thank you letter to Henry Ford, “Sir, I was able to buy the piano with the money you sent. Thank you!”
Then, the teacher received another letter from Ford with $10,000. The following words were found in the letter:
I am so proud to have a teacher like you in our country. In fact, I have never met someone like you. Many ask for donations but more often than not, most people either complain that I haven’t given enough or don’t show appreciation.
On the other hand, even though the money I donated to you wasn’t near enough, you have worked that money to buy the piano you wanted and even thanked me. So here is $10,000 for you to buy for your school and if there is anything else for whatever the amount, please don’t hesitate to contact me for I will take care it.
I hope we don’t get too comfortable receiving without showing gratitude. Also I hope that thanksgiving will spill over to even little things in life. I am reminded of Solomon’s word, “Moreover, when God gives any man wealth and possessions, and enables him to enjoy them, to accept his lot and be happy in his work – this is a gift of God” (Eccl. 5:9).
Have a wonderful week!