Four brothers left home for college, and they became successful
> doctors and lawyers and prospered.
>
> Some years later, they chatted after having dinner together. They
> discussed the gifts they were able to give their elderly mother who
> lived far away in another city.
>
> The first said, "I had a big house built for Mama."
>
> The second said, " I had a hundred thousand dollar theater built
> in the house."
>
> The third said, "I had my Mercedes dealer deliver an SL600 to
> her."
>
> The fourth said, "You know how Mamma loved reading the Bible and
> you know she can't read anymore because she can't see very well.
> I met this preacher who told me about a parrot that can recite the
> entire bible. It took twenty preachers 12 years to teach him.
> I had to pledge to contribute $100,000 a year for twenty
> 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 Mom 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."
>
> "Marvin, I am too old to travel. I stay home, I have my groceries
> delivered, so I never use the Mercedes. The thought was good.
> Thanks."
>
> "Michael, you gave me and expensive theater with Dolby sound, 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 just the same."
>
> "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."