A legacy least valued: The story of Tom Butt
As Tom Butt lay on his deathbed, he called his children to him, imparting words to them and said: “Follow my footsteps” he advised, “and you will find peace in all that you do.”
His daughter, Sara, responded with a voice mixed with frustration and sorrow.
“Daddy, it’s unfortunate you’re leaving us with nothing but your integrity. Other fathers, whom you call corrupt, leave behind wealth and properties. Here we are, in a ridiculous rented apartment. I can’t emulate your path; I need to build my own."
Moments later, Tom took his last breath, leaving the world without a penny to his name but with a heart full of virtue.
Three years passed and Sara found herself at a multinational company for a job interview. The Chairman of the committee asked, "Which Butt are you?"
"I am Sara Butt. My dad, Tom Butt, has passed away," she replied.
The Chairman’s eyes widened in recognition. "Oh my God, you are Tom Butt's daughter!" He turned to his colleagues, saying, "This man signed my membership form into the Institute of Administrators. His recommendation changed my life. He did it selflessly, without ever knowing me."
To Sara, he said, "I have no questions for you. You’ve got the job— your letter will be waiting for you tomorrow."
Sara became the Corporate Affairs Manager, enjoying a life of luxury with a lucrative salary, along with two cars, drivers and a duplex office.
Two years later, the company’s Managing Director came announcing his resignation and her need for a successor. Once again, Sara was nominated due to her high integrity. During her interview, she was asked about the secret to her success.
With tears streaming down her face, she replied, "My daddy paved this path for me. After he died, I realized he may have been financially poor, but he was rich in integrity, discipline and honesty."
When they asked her why she still mourned her father after all this time, she answered,
"At his death, I insulted him for being an honest man. I hope he can forgive me from his grave. I didn’t earn any of this by myself, it’s the opportunity he created for me."
Finally, they asked, "Will you follow your father's wishes and footsteps?"
Sara smiled through her tears, "I now honor him. I have his picture in my living room and at my entrance. He deserves everything I have, I thank God for his life"
Biblical verses that resonates with the Story:
Proverbs 22:1 (kjv)
A good name is rather to be chosen than great riches, and loving favour rather than silver and gold."
Ecclesiastes 7:1 (kjv)
A good name is better than precious ointment; and the day of death than the day of one's birth.
Leave a lasting heritage for your children—one that transcends material wealth and instills values that will guide them through life.