There's a story about a grandfather clock that had been a permanent fixture in one household for three generations. A new member of the family felt sorry for the old clock, however, because of the heavy weight that was suspended from it by a golden chain.

"No clock should have to bear a load like that," thought the kindhearted family member to himself as he removed the weight.

Immediately the ticking that had quietly sounded through the house for three generations ceased.

"Please put my weight back on," said the clock to the family member.

"I know you meant to help ease the burden, but it is the weight that keeps me going."

The fact is that if we didn't have responsibilities and a load to carry, chances are that most of us would be bored with life and never achieve anything that is worthwhile.