So many times we have the potential to solve the problems and/or challenges which face us daily. We simply don’t tap that potential by taking just a moment to pause and consider our many options. It’s also important to realize that common sense can often be as creative and productive as a higher education. Here’s a perfect example:

Son Helps Father Plant Garden

An old man lived alone in the country. He wanted to plant a tomato garden, but it was difficult work and his only son, Vincent, who used to help him, was in prison. The old man described the predicament in a letter to his son.

Dear Vincent,
I’m feeling bad. It looks like I won’t be able to put in my tomatoes this year. I’m just too old to be digging up a garden. I wish you were here to dig it for me.
Love, Dad

A few days later he received a letter from his son.

Dear Dad,
Sorry I’m not there to help, but whatever you do, don’t dig up that garden. That’s where I buried the BODIES.
Love, Vincent

At 4 a.m the next morning, FBI agents and local police arrived and dug up the entire area without finding a single body. They apologized to the old man and left. The same day the old man received another letter from his son.

Dear Dad,
Go ahead and plant the tomatoes now. That’s the best I could do under the circumstances.
Love, Vinnie

Note: It’s amazing how a little critical thinking can not only solve a problem but eliminate manual labor in doing so!

Harry K. Jones is a motivational speaker and consultant for AchieveMax®, Inc., a company of motivational speakers who provide custom-designed seminars, keynote presentations, and consulting services. Harry's top requested topics include change management, customer service, creativity, employee retention, goal setting, leadership, stress management, teamwork, and time management.  For more information on Harry's presentations, please call 800-886-2MAX or fill out our contact form.