Article August 25, 2008 ISSUE

THE GOAL WORTH PURSUING

BY EVAN MEHLENBACHER

There's a story about a construction laborer who worked very hard for his employer. He was a faithful apprentice who aspired to high standards and accomplished outstanding work. Because of his loyalty and excellent craftsmanship, his boss wanted to reward him. So he came up with a plan.

One day, the contractor told the young man to build a house, a magnificent dwelling, to be constructed of the finest building materials available. The employer was preparing to take a long business trip, and expected the home to be finished upon his return. He gave the apprentice a large sum of money to finish the job, and told him to keep whatever was left over for his pay.