Tom and the Gold Coin
Learn how self-control can be found when the motivation is strong enough.
A Challenge for Change
Harry was a kind, wealthy man who treated his servants with care. One of them, Tom, had a fierce temper. Harry often reminded Tom that God wished for us to treat others with kindness—but Tom dismissed the advice, justifying his anger as necessary.
The Golden Test
One day, Harry made Tom a unique offer: "Control your temper all day and speak kindly, and I will give you a gold coin." Tempted, Tom accepted the challenge.
That day, Tom faced multiple provocations, but for the gold coin, he held his tongue and softened his voice. In the evening, he proudly returned to Harry, expecting his reward.
A Hard Truth
Harry gave him the coin and said, “It’s a shame.” Tom was confused. Harry explained, “You wouldn’t change for God, but you changed for gold.”
Pearls of Wisdom
1. What was a shame? Why was Harry not happy even though Tom had behaved well the entire day?
Because Tom only chose to behave kindly for money, not because he valued what God wanted. Harry was sad that material reward motivated Tom more than doing the right thing for its own sake.
💡 Moral: True change comes from the heart. Doing good just for reward shows we don’t yet value goodness for what it is.
Disclaimer: This is an inspirational story adapted for teaching values. Credit to all original sources. Contact us for concerns or corrections.
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