I recently had a conversation with my son as he was searching for something simple and edible to take with him while driving while he completed some tasks for his business. As I left the room I mentioned, “What about an apple”, and caught only the sound of him muttering his response. When I turned back to find out what he said I saw him with apple in hand, drying the freshly washed apple.
“He bought it for five cents, polished it until he could see himself in its shine, and sold it for ten cents”, he said with a smile on his face and glimmer in his eyes, “Do you remember that story?”
I vaguely remembered, focusing more on the story and value of its meaning on this day. So I asked him to share more of what he remembered. The story went on, with the man selling the apple for ten cents and buying two more, repeating the process again and again.
What a great story, and I found a great deal of inspiration in both the story and the story teller. I added my own findings in the story as well. I’m sure if there are numerous examples of great business sense that can be gained from this story, and I would love to hear from you with your own take on its meaning.
Here’s mine: “He polished the apple until he could see his own reflection in it” speaks to me of instilling value in the apple. On a typical day I would have passed right by that apple, seeking out something of value instead of taking something simple and giving it value. That’s the name of the game, taking something, anything, and adding to it, increasing its value. What greater power do we have in this world?
If you liked the story then leave a comment. Share your perceptions, or add to the story. This is your opportunity to be heard and to add to the value of the apple. Ready, set, GO!
Author Estee Taschereau assists individuals to reach their highest potential using skills not found in the corporate world. Her “higher self” sessions cater to the creator and motivator in YOU, bringing the message, purpose and value to the surface where you can use it to propel yourself in any path you choose. Estee’s book, Being Here Now, serves as a complimentary resource with techniques that empower and clarify your unique abilities.
Funny story. I was just thinking about something today that this story fits. A friend is losing part of their business, whining about it. Got an apple? Go ahead and say “it’s just an apple” and eat it. Be done. Or make it a new business and build from there.
Thanks, I’m going to link to this article. Good reference.