They all prospered and each one was able to give their elderly mother a special gift.

Some years later, chatting after a wonderful dinner, they discussed the gifts that they gave their dear mother.

The first said, "I had a big house built for Mom."

The second said, "I had a $100,000 theater built in the house."

The third said, "I had my Mercedes dealer deliver her a car with a chauffeur."

The fourth said, "Listen to this. You know how Mom loves reading the Bible and you know she can't see very well. I sent her a parrot that can recite the entire Bible. It took 12 priests 20 years to teach him. I had to pledge to contribute $100,000 a year for 20 years but it was worth it. Mom just has to name the chapter and verse and the parrot will recite it."

Soon thereafter, Mom sent out her thank-you notes. She wrote:

"John, the house you built is so huge. I live in only one room, but I have to clean the whole house. Thanks so much."

"James, you give me a theater with Dolby sound, it could hold 50 people, but all my friends are dead, I've lost most of my hearing and I'm nearly blind. Thanks anyway."

"Adam, I am too old to travel. I stay home, I have my groceries delivered, so I never use the Mercedes. A million thanks."

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