Fill

An aged and prosperous businessman worried about who would carry on after his death.  His only relatives were three young nephews.  So he called them in and said that one of them would be his successor.  "But I have a problem.  And the one who solves it shall inherit my business."  He said, "I have a large room, which I want to fill as soon as possible.  Here is a small coin for each of you.  Go now, but return at sunset and I will see what you can buy with this coin to fill the room."

Hurriedly they went their way to the market, and as twilight fell they returned.  The first youth, was dragging a bale of straw.  When loosened, it made a pile so great that it filled half of the room.  He was complimented by the other two as they helped him clear it away. The second youth bought in two bags of thistle-down which when released, filled two thirds of the room. Now it was time for the third nephew, who was standing still and forlorn.  "And what have you," asked his uncle?  The young man replied, "I gave my coin to feed a hungry child leaving me only a little change.  With what was left I have bought a small candle and a few matches."  He then lighted the candle and its light filled the entire room.

Love and light and friendship fill the empty rooms of life, as well as refrigerators and stereos and easy chairs!