First Lesson in Business

On the first day his son joined the family firm, the founder took him on to the roof of the factory building and said:

- I am going to give you your very first lesson in business. Stand on the edge of the roof.

Reluctantly, the boy went to stand on the edge of the roof.

- Now - said his father - when I say, Jump, I want you to jump off the roof.

- But, Dad - said the boy - there's a huge drop!

- Do you want to succeed in business?

- Yes, Dad.

- And you trust me, don't you?

- Yes, Dad.

- So do as I say and jump.

The boy jumped. He crashed to the ground and lay there, winded and bruised. His father went racing down the stairs and ran up to him.

- That was your first lesson in business, son. Never trust anyone.