A young man stole several thousand dollars from the business where he was employed. When the crime was discovered the senior partner called the man to his office. Immediately he knew he would be fired and possibly be sent to prison. He was asked if he was guilty, and on admitting he was the executive suprised him. ‘If I keep you in your present capacity, can I trust you in the future?’ he was asked. Suprised the young man said ‘Yes sir, surely you can – I’ve learned my lesson’ he replied.
His boss must have detected the repentant man’s sincerity. ‘I’m not going to press charges and you can continue as you are.’ he said – motioning for him to leave. As the relieved young man got to the door of the office his boss added, ‘I think you ought to know however, that you are the second person in this company, who succumbed to temptation and then was shown leniency. I was the first. What you have done, I did. The mercy you are receiving I received.,
Those who have been forgiven, forgive best.
Story from Steve Goodier.
A fire to kindle other fires 