Margaret Baillargeon wrote the following story in Catholic Digest:

"Every family has favorite stories that are repeated each year at Christmastime. At our house, the one we will always remember occurred several years ago, when my brother Richard was 7 years old.

"Richard was the second youngest of nine children. While he never lacked attention, he nevertheless had his little chores to do around the house. One Saturday afternoon, three days before Christmas, my mother was in her usual rush to get everything done. She asked Richard to go upstairs and polish her Sunday shoes. After awhile, Richard brought down the shoes, obviously proud of the job he had done. Mother was so pleased that she reached into her purse and handed him a quarter. A quarter was quite a treasure, especially three days before Christmas, but Richard looked puzzled. He took the money, picked up the shoes and quietly went back upstairs. In a few minutes, Mother rushed up to change her clothes. As she slipped her feet into the shiny shoes, her right foot hit a lump in the toe. She was half-annoyed and hurriedly pulled out a wad of paper. She unwrapped it, and out fell a quarter. Written in a 7-year-old scrawl were the words, 'I done it for love.'"

Richard's parents had taught him the true meaning of love. Surely, his mother, with nine children, was a busy lady. However, a wise and loving mother will find some time to spend with each child. A hug, an approving smile, an "I love you," a gentle tucking-in at night and a pleasant "thank you" all communicate to the child that he or she is important and loved. So, demonstrate your love to that little one and you will help make a better world. See you at the top!

Love is a game that two can play — and both can win.

To find out more about Zig Ziglar and read features by other Creators Syndicate writers and cartoonists, visit the Creators Syndicate web page at www.creators.com.

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