A woman goes into the local newspaper office to see that the obituary for her recently deceased husband is properly written (she had always been known for her accuracy to details, second only to her famous sense of thrift). Only his beloved pickup truck remains to remind her of his presence.
The obit editor informs her that the fee for the obituary is 50 cents a word. She pauses, reflects and then says, “Well then, let it read, ‘Billy Bob died.”
Although amused at the woman’s cleverness, the editor says, “Sorry, ma’am, but there is a 7 word minimum on all obituaries.”
This causes her to become a little flustered, and she thinks things over for a few seconds. “In that case,” she says, “let it read, ‘Billy Bob died, 1983 Pickup for sale.'”
For reasons that go far beyond finances, we should learn to be a people of few words (and we should make those few words count). Solomon had quite a few things to say on this subject:
“In the multitude of words sin is not lacking, but he who restrains his lips is wise.” (Prov. 10:19)
“Therefore let your words be few. For….a fool’s voice is known
by his many words.” (Eccl. 5:2-3)
“He who has knowledge spares his words….. Even a fool is counted wise when he holds his peace; When he shuts his lips, he is considered perceptive.” (Prov. 17:27-28)
Let your words be few. I would say more, but…….
Have a great day!
~Alan Smith
