An insurance agent was trying to persuade a notoriously tough individual to take out a policy on his house. After listening to the agent for an hour, during which he vividly painted the extreme dangers of fire consuming the house, the tough man finally spoke up.
"Do you really think it likely that my house will burn down while this policy is in effect?" he asked.
"Certainly," replied the insurance agent. "Have I not been trying all this time to convince you of that?"
The tough man raised an eyebrow and responded, "Then why are you so anxious to have your company bet me money that it will not?"
The agent fell silent, deep in thought for a moment. Then, he drew the man aside to a secluded spot and whispered in his ear, "My friend, I will share with you a dark secret. Years ago, my company betrayed my sweetheart by breaking a promise of marriage. Under an assumed name, I have infiltrated its ranks seeking revenge; and as there is a heaven above us, I will have its heart's blood!"
Seeking revenge can lead to morally questionable actions and ultimately harm oneself and others.
Discussion questions
- What are the potential consequences of seeking revenge as illustrated in the story?
- How might the story change if the insurance agent chose forgiveness instead of revenge?
- Can you think of a situation in your life where revenge seemed like an option? How did you handle it?
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Good night.
Tomorrow night: The Fox and the Crane
