The Ultimate Investment
This free, daily investment determines the outcome of your entire life.
It has nothing to do with money, but it can be spent as if it were. Whether you make that investment or not is up to you. Will your’s turn a profit?
Written in the tradition of “The Greatest Salesman in the World,” “The Wealthy Barber,” and “The Richest Man in Babylon,” The Ultimate Investment is a parable of approximately 20,000 words in length. It takes the reader on a journey of discovery into the most priceless resource we all have. Along the way it illuminates some of the world’s biggest blind spots, where people lose the value of their greatest asset without ever knowing.
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The Ultimate Investment
By
Robert J. Adams
Copyright 2004 by Buckaroo Press, all rights reserved. No part if this book may be reproduced in any form or by electronic or mechanical means including information storage and retrieval systems without permission in writing from the publisher, except by a reviewer, who may quote brief passages in a review. Published by Buckaroo Press, P.O. Box 338, St. George, Utah 84771
Chapter 1
“How was your day?” Mandie called from the kitchen.
“Same as always I guess.” Dan Benjamin stepped through the door and hung his coat in the closet. It was dark out and he was dead tired — as usual. He looked wistfully around the room as if seeing it for the first time. The carpet was old, the furniture older. All of it hand-me-downs. A mismatched collection of discards from family and friends, all in good shape, but discards just the same.
The only thing new was the family portrait. They’d saved for months and finally had it taken. Dan, Mandie, their three kids, Dan Jr. Mellissa, and little Ronnie all in best clothes and brightest smiles. Of course, the kids had insisted Moochie, the family dog be included too. That picture, in the most expensive frame they could afford (which wasn’t much), hung a little askew above the old TV.
Dan loved his family. Tonight as he came home he felt sorry for them. Sorry they had him as a father. He straightened the portrait.
“Something wrong?” Mandie came in from the kitchen, wiping her hands on a dishtowel.
“Just the usual,” Dan replied. “Did I miss dinner again?”
“There’s a plate in the fridge. I’ll heat it up.”
Dan raised his eyebrows.
“Don’t look surprised!” Mandie said. “I wouldn’t dream of letting you starve, especially since you bring home the bacon.”
“Thanks,” Dan sighed. “Sometimes I wonder if it’s worth it.”
“Must have really been a bad day,” Mandie gave him a hug. “Come, sit. I’ll get your food. You’re lucky the kids are in bed. You may even have a few moment’s peace before you doze off.”
“Do I look that tired?”
“Like the walking dead.”
“Thanks for the compliment.” Dan sank down on the threadbare couch, kicked off his shoes and pulled off his tie, laying it carefully across the back so it wouldn’t wrinkle. Dry cleaning was expensive.
“You’ve been a pretty good sport,” Dan called out as Mandie walked into the kitchen and pulled open the fridge.
“Do I have a choice?” she called back.
“Good question. I wish I had a better answer.” Dan heaved himself off the couch and dogged into the kitchen. He sat at the worn and scratched table — another hand-me-down.
The kitchen, in spite of his mood, was bright and happy; a good reflection of its primary occupant, Mandie. Several delicate dried flower arrangements clung to the walls. Mandie had taught herself, looping and draping with ribbon, hot glue holding it all together.
The cabinets also had nicks and scratches from children in runaway walkers. They needed a new whitewash. The ancient monolith they called a fridge was plastered with a large collection of magnets from “all over”. “All over,” meant that whenever friends or family went someplace fun, they brought Mandie back a magnet.
“Do you ever wonder how we ended up here?”
“What?” Mandie placed the plate she’d pulled out of the fridge into the microwave. She pushed buttons, listening to the little beeps as each touch registered, then pushed the start button. The old machine roared to life. “You mean we could’ve been rich but just forgot to choose?” She was teasing, trying to make Dan feel better. She knew how hard it was on him, how badly he wanted to succeed, to provide well for the family.
She looked at him. He was seated at the table, his back to her. Head down, shoulders slumped. He was tired, she knew, from working so hard, but this time was different. It looked as if all the spirit had been beaten out of him, like he was just a heap of flesh with no life, no spark. She started to worry.
“You’ve been having a lot of bad days lately,” she said, pulling the plate out of the microwave. She placed it with a hot pad in front of him. “Do you want to talk?”
“No . . . Well, yes!” He watched Mandie pour the milk. “Isn’t life supposed to be fun? Aren’t we supposed to enjoy it even a little?”
“Of course,” Mandie answered, placing his glass on the table and pulling out a chair to sit. “I’ve always thought life was pretty fun. It hasn’t always been easy, but at least we’ve had some good times – haven’t we?” Mandie stopped. She thought over his questions, saw how it reflected on her. “I take it you haven’t.” Mandie started to dread. Was this the way it happened? Is this how it had started with her Uncle Will? He’d given up everything, abandoned his family to go ‘find himself’?
Dan laughed, patting Mandie on the hand. He’d seen her expression. “I didn’t mean it like that.
“I’ve just been thinking a lot about our life.”
“And what’ve you been thinking?” Mandie was still nervous. “Is something wrong at work?”
“No. Nothing like that. Everything’s fine. The extra hours should start paying off, and the bonuses should start showing up in the checks. After taxes, it probably won’t mean much, though.
“What’s got me lately is just that, well, with all the work I’m doing, and the money my boss keeps telling me I’m supposed to be making, shouldn’t I enjoy it more? Shouldn’t I feel successful? No let me rephrase that.” Dan stood and walked over to the sink, squinting out into the darkness.
“I feel successful. And I enjoy working. I even enjoy what I do for the most part. But it’s not what I love to do. I can’t see myself doing it the rest of my life. You know what I mean?” Dan turned back to Mandie.
Mandie shrugged. “Not many people make a living with something they love. You’re farther than most. At least you like your job. You haven’t made a killing yet, but you will. It won’t be long. Then we’ll start traveling like we’ve always wanted.”
“I wish I had your faith.” He came and sat again. “I think I’m missing something.
“Take your brother, Glen. He thrives on his work and makes a ton of money — without putting in near the hours I do. That’s what bugs me most. Why do I put in so much time and earn less than someone who works half as hard?
“You know,” Dan picked up his fork. “I wouldn’t even have to make a lot of money. It’d be enough to do something I love. That and have time to enjoy life a little. I hardly see you ““ and I never see the kids. They’re asleep when I leave, and in bed when I come home. How do I win? If I didn’t work longer, we’d make less money, and I’d be stressed about that. But if I do work the longer hours, then I don’t have much of a life.”
Dan ran his hand through his hair. “Don’t listen to me. I’m just tired. If I keep it up a bit longer, things’ll get better.” He gave Mandie a tight smile. “Sorry if I worried you.”
“At least it’s Friday,” Mandie brightened. Dan could tell it was forced. “You don’t have to work tomorrow do you?”
“Don’t think I could even if they dragged me in. I’m so burned out, if I don’t take a break I’ll wig out.” He cringed then, seeing Mandie’s face. She covered it well.
“Just take tomorrow off completely then” Mandie said. “There’s nothing you need to do that can’t wait a while longer. Just rest.”
“I may take you up on that. Do you know how long it’s been since I’ve curled up with a good book? I was thinking about that on the way home. I used to love reading.”
“It’s settled then. Go over to the library tomorrow and pick out a book. The kids wanted to visit the cousins tomorrow and you can have that time all to yourself.”
Dan could see Mandie was still worried. She didn’t say anything, and he was so tired he couldn’t give more reassurance.
Mandie stood. “I’ll go check on the kids. You finish eating and unwind. If you want to talk more we can.”
Dan nodded as she left.
“Way to go,” he mumbled. “Mandie’s stressed enough.” He felt like a heel.
Dan tried to brighten up, to push it out of his mind for her sake. She worked as hard as he did.
Mandie came back just as he finished and they went into the front room on the couch. They talked quietly. Dan didn’t bring work up again. Mandie decided not to press. They talked about the kids and things he’d missed. Things he always missed.
When they went to bed, Dan couldn’t blank the sour thoughts, couldn’t shake the feeling. He wasn’t going anywhere. He was wasting his life.
If only he could start over, take a different path.
What would it be? After a deep breath he realized it didn’t matter. It was too late.
Dan drifted into fretful sleep.
Chapter 2
Dan squinted against the sun glaring through the bedroom blinds. It had been a long time since he’d seen the sun through that window. He’d also forgotten how nice it was to sleep in.
“Honey,” Dan called. No answer. The house was still.
He rubbed his eyes, swung his feet to the side of the bed and sat. There was a note on the nightstand. He held it up.
Dear Dan,
We thought we’d let you sleep in. I’ve gone with the kids to Susan’s. We won’t be back until dinner.
Enjoy your rest!
Hugs and Kisses!!!
Mandie
Dan put note down and noticed the time on the digital clock. 9:13. He really had slept in. Pushing to his feet, he wavered into the bathroom and turned on the shower. Time to rest!
Dan felt the previous day’s disappointment lingering, tried to brush it aside. He tested the water and climbed in, letting it run over his head, warming his body. It feels great not having to hurry. I wish it could last a week!
Half numb from the hot shower, Dan toweled dry, then went to the closet,
“Oh yea,” he smiled. “No tie today.” A quirky smile crossed his face. “If I don’t have to dress up, then I may as well be comfortable.”
He crossed the room to the battered dresser. From the bottom drawer he pulled out a pair of faded denims. He tossed them on the bed, then pulled open the next drawer, picking out a tee shirt Mandie had tried to throw out a dozen times.
Dan dressed, then felt guilty. Why? Why should he feel guilty about not having anything specific to do? How long had it been? He tried to push the feeling back and reached into the closet for his beat-up tennis shoes. Mandie would die if she saw me. Again he smiled.
What should he do next? He’d been on automatic pilot for so long he didn’t know what to do when his time wasn’t filled with something he was supposed to do. A decision! Moving downstairs, he grabbed his briefcase from where he’d left it the night before. He walked into the kitchen and set it on the table, snapped it open and pushed aside the stack of files. Underneath, he pulled out the pen he’d been awarded on his 5th anniversary with the company. At the time he’d thought it a big deal. Today, all he did was chuckle under his breath. The pen went underneath the neck of his tee shirt with the clip facing out, then snapped the case shut and set it aside.
He glanced at the stenciled wall clock. Almost ten. Dan got up and poked his head into the fridge.
Yep! there it was. A brown bag with a red heart drawn on it. Mandie’s trademark. She always made him a lunch. Then to tell him she loved him, she always drew a heart on the outside with a smiley face inside. Dan was embarrassed at first but what the heck! He loved his wife, and didn’t care who knew it.
It was early, but he wouldn’t be back for lunch. Besides, he was hungry and didn’t want to fix breakfast. He pulled the bag out of the fridge and sat at the table. Dan pulled out the sandwich then stood and went back to the fridge, pulled out the milk carton, and crossed to the cupboard for a glass. He filled the glass, then put the carton back in the fridge and settled back at the table.
“Time to plan my day. Let’s see…” Dan bit into his sandwich and chewed. “This should be real easy.”
Chapter 3
The library wasn’t too far. Mandie often took the kids there. Dan was surprised at how long it had been since he’d gone. He walked into the foyer, found he didn’t know where to find what he was looking for. He also realized it had been so long, he didn’t have a valid library card.
His eyes brushed over the wide expanse of shelving. He was afraid to admit he was nervous. Kids walked around like they owned the place, scuffling across the thin rust colored carpet. Parents followed behind, carrying books for the younger children. He noticed senior citizens reading the newspapers and magazines, keeping up on world events without having to step back into the rat race.
“How would it be?” Dan mumbled. “Wait till I retire. I know what I’d do with all that time…”
There! His eyes latched onto the sign he’d been looking for. “Information” was printed in bold letters.
Dan stepped up to the desk and cleared his throat.
“Yes?” the attendant whirled on a swivel chair. He looked at Dan over the top of his spectacles. The man was dressed in a blue shirt, a blue striped tie, and blue polyester pants. He was bald on top, with hair at the sides combed over the top.
This guy has found his niche, Dan thought as he pulled out his wallet.
“I need a new library card. My old one probably isn’t good any more.” He held it out to the man.
“You’re right, sir.” The librarian scrutinized it. “I need two forms of I.D. And fill out this form.” The little man placed a paper and pen in front of him with casual effort.
Dan nodded, picked up the pen and set his wallet out so the librarian could record the information off his driver’s license and credit card through the plastic holder.
The man pinched his face down, peering at the proffered information as Dan struggled not to laugh. He concentrated on filling out the form, and keeping track of his wallet.
“Is your address still correct?” He was making notations on another form he’d pulled out.
“You’re pretty good at that.” Dan said.
“Thank you sir,” the attendant answered. “Your information?”
“Oh… Yes!” Dan remembered. “That’s the right address.”
“Thank you.” The librarian made some final notations, collected the form from Dan –making sure to collect the cheap pen– then stapled the forms together.
Swiveling again, he eased in front of a keyboard and clicked at the keys with a speed any secretary would envy. Oblivious to anything until completed, the attendant swirled back, reached down to the whirring printer, pulled a label from the form feed. He peeled the back off, then darted his hand into the suddenly open drawer to his right, pulling out a new library card.
The label went on the back of the card, and was handed across the desk.
“There you are, sir. Anything else?”
“Uh, yes,” Dan said. “I’m looking for books on a certain topic…”
“Right behind you sir, along the wall,” the librarian pointed. “Those monitors contain the library index files. If you need help, just ask the attendant. She’ll be glad to assist you. Next?”
Dan noticed a small line had formed. Grasping the card, he moved aside, dodging a Cub Scout group, and made his way to the computer monitors along the wall. He waited until one came free, then walked forward uncertainly. He noted the instructions with relief, and found he could probably use it okay.
“I certainly don’t remember these being here,” he mumbled.
“Shhh!” came from an older lady next to him.
“Sorry.” Dan ducked his head.
Let’s see . . . he thought, placing his knuckle in his mouth the keep from talking to himself. What do I want to look up? He scrunched his eyes for a moment.
“I know.” Dan typed in “Dreams,” then punched “Search” on the keyboard. Dan had always been curious about dreams and what they meant. It’d been years since he’d read that article which had piqued his interest. It was pathetic it had taken so long to look into something that held his interest.
The monitor blanked, then the screen filled with a topical guide. Scanning down the list, he hit #3 on the keyboard, taking him to “Dreams and Dreaming: Analysis.”
Again the screen blanked while the search continued.
This beats the card catalog I remember, Dan thought, careful to keep his lips pressed tight. He glanced at the older lady at the next station. She looked as if she’d shush him again — sternly!
The screen blinked and a list of books scrolled down the monitor. Dan put his finger against the screen, tracing the listings down. He picked up a pencil and slip of paper from a small tray next to the monitor and noted the reference numbers for three books.
He punched “return” to reset the computer for the next search, picked up the paper and placed the pencil back in the tray. Turning, he looked along the tall book stacks, seeing the series of numbers he was looking for posted along one end.
Dan moved into the aisle, squeezing past a couple browsing in the child care section, moved past another man stooping to pick through the bottom shelf, then got some clear space in front of the series of numbers he was looking for.
Again, using his finger to trace the call number of each book, he narrowed it down to the third shelf from the top. Then he began scanning the titles… “Here, here, here,” he mumbled quietly. He couldn’t remember when he’d started talking to himself like that, but the moment he caught himself, he stopped.
Pursing his lips to remind him to keep quiet, he continued scanning the shelf.
Nothing.
He looked again.
Still nothing.
He started at the top shelf and traced the numbers again. It took him to the same shelf, scanning very slowly, looking at the title of each book to make sure he didn’t miss anything . . . Nothing.
Just my luck. The books aren’t even here. Dan shook his head, looked down the aisle. The couple and the man were still in his way. He turned and walked toward the opposite end to go around rather than try to squeeze through.
As he passed through the stacks, a book caught his eye. “Big Money, Little Work.”
Dan stopped. He looked closer. The dust jacket on the book was printed in the likeness of thousand dollar bills. The title was superimposed with bold, red lettering.
He pulled the book from the shelf. I don’t believe this! Dan looked at the shelf. There were other titles: “Being Rich is Your Right!” “Wealth: It’s Yours to Grab.” “Big Bucks!”
Are these for real? Dan wondered.
He started to put the book back, then stopped.
“Wait. This might be what I’m looking for.”
He pulled several other books from the shelf, stacking them on one arm as he continued to grab any title that struck his fancy.
Nine books were stacked precariously in his arms. He left the stacks and eased across to a room labeled, “Quiet Study.”
Inside, he found an empty cubicle in the far corner. Dan placed the books on the desk titles face down so no one would see what he was reading, then pulled the most intriguing title out first, “High Time for High Finance.”
He thumbed through the front pages, stopped at the table of contents, looked at each chapter title, then turned to the first and started reading . . .
***
Four hours later, Dan had skimmed through 5 books. At first, he’d been excited. The further he got, the more he came down to earth. This isn’t me, he thought. I could never be like this. I could never do this stuff!” Dan slapped the book shut. “People actually make money doing these things? I wouldn’t be able to sleep at night I’d be so stressed.”
Dan thumbed through the stack and picked one he figured was partly, at least, legitimate. There’s got to be something I can do to make my life better.
The money-making techniques in this book involved getting 75 credit cards, taking out the maximum cash advance from each one to buy real estate — for cash! Of course you get a bargain buying with cash, Dan thought, but there’s no guarantee you can sell it again before the high credit card interest strangles whatever profit you might have made. Then you start going into the hole — with no way to pay your debt!
I don’t have the stomach for this stuff. How does Mandie’s brother do it? Commodities dealing is risky, but he seems to clean up. People think he’s dignified and sophisticated. But if I tried any of these schemes, I’d feel like a crook. Maybe it’s just me. Maybe I’m just not cut out to make money. Some can, some can’t . . . And I’m always the can’t.
Dan stacked the books and slid them forward to scoop them off the desk. Might as well get a fun book to read. He curled his hand under the books. A spark of static electricity shot from the metal edge of the desk.
“Ouch!”
The books dropped to the floor. Occupants of other cubicles popped their heads above the dividers to see what had happened.
“Sorry,” Dan said.
He kneeled down. There was an old piece of paper hanging out one of the books. He slipped it out.
How’d I miss this? Dan put the books back on the desk and opened the paper carefully. It had been folded into fourths and was so old it might tear. He was curious.
The writing was in a fancy script he was sure was a woman’s.
“Dear Friend,” The note began.
“If you’re reading this book, then you need my help . . .”
“Strange,” Dan mumbled. He kept reading.
“You’re probably struggling, trying to make some sense of your life, right? Well, let me say, you won’t find anything in this book that’ll help. In fact, if you listen to this book, you’ll only end up more frustrated than you are now. I know. I’ve been there, and can tell you from experience. You don’t need what’s in this book — or in any other book of this type. The only person getting rich off this stuff is the person writing it. If the things it teaches are so easy, why doesn’t he spend more time doing rather than writing about it? If this information is the sure winner he says, why is he so anxious to tell the world?
The authors all say it’s out of altruism, that there’s plenty out there for everyone. But if that were the case, why do we have so many patent attorneys? Why do we have so many industrial spies? The truth is they know most of you will never do anything with the information. Or when you try, you’ll quickly become discouraged and give up.
“Come on, friend, you already know these books aren’t for you. You’re grasping at anything now. Looking for something to take you away from the rat race you’re in. Am I right?”
Dan looked up from reading. “So far she’s hit it right on the head.” He started reading again.
“Look. If you really need to jump start your life, and if you’re really serious about finding happiness, then read on. If you’re just messing around, then put this back in the book and put it back on the shelf so I can really help someone who’s ready to be helped. Are you willing to do what it takes to make a better life?”
Dan thought a moment. This lady is good. She’s got it so no one would dare stop now. It’s probably some wild goose chase. He was tempted to shred the paper and put all the books back, then he shook his head. This is stupid. I can’t believe I’m doing this. Dan held the old paper up and continued reading.
“Still with me? Good!
“We’ve established that you don’t need this book. Or any like it. All they sell is false dreams to the gullible. What you really need is to learn about the ultimate source of wealth — the ultimate resource. I call it the Ultimate Investment.”
“Give me a break!” Dan slapped the paper down on the desk. People again looked over cubicles, giving him funny looks, worried if he were dangerous or not.
“Sorry.” Dan breathed deep, calming down. Here this lady is telling me that I shouldn’t waste my time on ‘hype’ and that’s the first thing she does after sucking me in. Next she’ll be asking for money to buy ‘her’ book of secrets.
He opened the paper again.
“Now don’t get excited! It’s not what you think. I’m not going to ask for any money, and I won’t get anything out of this. Really! Well, not quite. This may sound like all the others, but I will get some satisfaction, knowing I’m helping — if you make it all the way through — to make a better life for yourself.
You see the Ultimate Investment isn’t something you get from me or anyone else.
“So prepare to be frustrated…
“I’m not going to tell you what it is. You’ll have to figure it out for yourself.
“Why? Because I found a long time ago, whenever someone gets something so valuable without having to work and sacrifice, they don’t appreciate it. And it rarely does them any good.
I want you to treasure this investment. I want you to know how really priceless it is. I want you to receive the full extent it has to offer. I want it to make you as rich as it has made me.”
Right! Dan thought. How do I know this lady is rich? How do I know she isn’t playing me for a fool — like everyone else seems to? He looked at the stack of books he’d been skimming.
What the heck. May as well finish. He glanced at the time. It was near four in the afternoon. He started reading again.
“Let me tell you about myself. I’m rich. But not in normal sense you think of as rich. I’ve got plenty of money, yes. That’s not what I’m talking about. I’m rich because I like myself. I like what I’ve done with my life. I’m fulfilled. I can’t wait to get up every morning and go to work. I love what I do. I love it so much I’d do it 24 hours a day if I could. I love it so much I don’t even wear a watch, or set my alarm clock. I don’t care what time it is… Ever!
I’m doing what I want with my life, and I couldn’t be happier. Because I’m doing what I love, I do it well and I make money . . . Plenty of money, in fact.
“What I do, specifically, isn’t what is important. It doesn’t really matter what you do, as long as you’re wisely investing the Ultimate Investment. Again, I won’t tell you what it is. You’ll have to discover it for yourself.
“What I will do, though, is give you clues to help you look. If you look carefully, you’ll find what I’ve found . . . The Ultimate Investment.
“If you’ve paid enough of a price in looking to realize the treasure when you’ve found it, you’ll become as happy as I, no matter how much money you make.
“Here’s the first clue:
“The amount you have isn’t important, it’s how it’s invested that counts.
“That’s it. The first clue. Got the answer yet? Not even a guess? Don’t worry. If you keep looking, you’ll get it. I’m sure you will!
“By the way, the other clues — there’s three more — are found here in the library in other books. You’ll just have to figure out which ones.
“Happy investing,”
“E.M.A.”
“Hmmm,” Dan rubbed his chin. “What about this? That part about loving what you do, that’s what I’ve been looking for. A coincidence?
Sounds like a bunch of hooey. Still . . . What if there’s something to it? What if this is what I’ve been looking for?”
Dan glanced at his watch. It was time to go.
He carefully folded the paper, holding it in one hand as he pushed the stack of books onto another. He walked out of the quiet study area and placed the books on a re-shelving cart.
On the way home, the words kept echoing in his mind, “‘The amount you have isn’t important, it’s how it’s invested that counts.”
Chapter 4
“I’m home,” Dan called as he stepped through the door.
“Hi dear,” Mandie greeted him as usual, then . . .
“Yaaaayyy!!! Dad’s home!!!” The kids swarmed and wrapped their arms around his legs. Dan couldn’t move, but he couldn’t have been happier. He’d missed this so much.
“Easy now, we’ll fall…”
And they did, in a heap, kids spilling off the sides. Just as quickly they jumped on top.
“Dog pile on Dad! Dog pile on Dad!”
“Come on kids,” Mandie started pulling them off. “I just dusted in here, you’re making it fly again.”
“Awe, Mom,” Dan Jr. said, refusing to move. “We’re just having fun.”
“Then take it outside, I don’t want you to break anything.”
“Yaayy! Come on Dad, let’s go outside and wrestle.”
“Yeah, come on Dad,” little Ronnie said. “Let’s go outside and wrestle!”
Dan looked at Mandie. She nodded, her smile beaming. He needed play time with the kids. “Dinner can wait,” she said. “Now get out of the house before you break something.”
The kids pulled Dan off the floor and pushed him outside. Now they had their dad, they didn’t want him to get away.
As soon as they hit the grass, arms flew around his legs again, and he was down, rolling with delight, kids piling on and off with a joy he’d not seen in months.
****
“Mandie, look at this.” Dinner was over and the kids tucked in. He and Mandie were sitting on the couch. They hadn’t had any free time together in quite a while, and it was strange to them.
Dan handed the folded paper to Mandie.
She looked at him.
“I found it at the library in a book I was reading. It’s kind of weird, but I wanted to see what you thought.”
“What is it?”
“Read and see — here, be careful. It’s really old.”
Mandie unfolded the paper and read. Dan watched as her eyes skimmed the page, her eyebrows rising. She stopped and looked at Dan.
“Keep reading till the end.”
“Okay, but you’re right. This is weird.”
After a moment, Mandie put the paper down.
“What do you think?” Dan asked.
“What do you think?” Mandie answered.
“I don’t know. It kind of startled me at the time,” Dan said, shifting his weight on the couch to face Mandie. “It’s got me curious though.”
They were quiet for a moment.
“Hon,” Dan started, “I’m sorry about all that talk last night, you know, wondering if it’s all worth it. In spite of what you may think, I’m really not going crazy.”
“I didn’t think that at all.” Mandie said. “And I think I know what you’re going through. You’re not satisfied with your work. You’re not satisfied with your life. That’s kind of what happened with my Uncle George. He burned himself out, then left his wife and kids to ‘find’ himself.”
“Oh Hon!” Dan put his arm around her shoulders. He could feel she was tense. “I’m not thinking anything like that! This isn’t the beginning of some mid-life crisis.”
“You sure?”
“Of course! How could you even think such a thing?”
“I’ve been seeing what you’ve been going through, how tired you are when you get home, how much the stress is taking out of you.” Mandie took a deep breath. “I just don’t want to have you . . . leave.”
“There’s no way I’d ever leave you and the kids!” Dan pulled her close. “Never. And I’m not even thinking of quitting my job. I couldn’t do that. What would we do for money?”
There was another moment of quiet.
“What are you thinking then?” Mandie asked.
“I don’t know. Just that there’s got to be a better way to earn enough to live on, and enjoy what I do — but don’t worry, I’m not going to quit my job to try and find myself.”
“So what are you going to do?” Dan could tell Mandie was still nervous.
“Nothing. I’ll continue with my job, continue to work hard, continue to love you and the kids, and most of all, I’ll stay right here at home where I belong.” He squeezed her tight.
“But what about this note? Aren’t you curious about what it means?”
“Sure I am,” Dan said, setting back. “Aren’t you.”
“Yes . . . Are you going to see if you can find out what it means?”
Dan raised his eyebrows.
“Don’t look at me that way,” Mandie punched him. “Yes, I’m curious too. And yes, I think it may be important for you to find out. I’m . . . I’m just worried is all. You’ve been so tired lately, things haven’t been good for you at work.”
“Thanks for understanding.” Dan said. “But don’t worry. I’m not going to do anything different than what I’m doing now.” He was quiet for a moment. “At least until we have something better we both feel good about. Deal?”
“You mean you won’t do anything strange or different until I think you should do it too?”
“That’s what I mean. Is it a deal?”
“Deal.” Mandie said. She still didn’t look convinced.
“Now,” Dan smiled, pointing to the note. “Do you want to help me solve this or not?”
“You know I’m a sucker for a good mystery. Who knows, maybe this E.M.A. person really has something. Heaven knows it couldn’t get any worse, could it?” Dan could tell Mandie was still worried, testing.
“Remember the deal, Honey. Nothing changes without both of us feeling good about it.”
“But what if you feel good about it and I don’t?”
“Then we won’t do it.”
“It’s that simple?” Mandie asked. Dan could see her face start to relax.
“That simple,” Dan said.
Chapter 5
“Well, where do we start?” Mandie and Dan stood in the library foyer. They’d decided to take a special “night out” and see if they could come any closer to solving the mystery of the note.
“The note said we’d have to figure out where to go next.” Dan said, holding it out for both to read. “I’ve been thinking during the week, and I have an idea. See here where it says, “The amount you have isn’t important, it’s how it’s invested that makes all the difference.”
Mandie nodded.
“I think the underlined word, invested, is our clue. What do you think?”
“I think so to.” Mandie said. “Lead the way, Sherlock.”
They entered the main area of the library and moved over to the index monitors.
“I know how to use these now,” Dan said. “You didn’t tell me that the library had computerized.”
“Has it been that long since you’ve been here? Mandie was surprised.
“Yeah, I felt lost when I came here last week. But it was okay, I had a four year old show me how to work things.”
Mandie looked shocked. “Really?”
“No! not really. I do have some pride. Figured it out all by myself.”
Dan puffed his chest out in fake pride.
“Don’t get too pleased with yourself or we’ll loose our place.” Mandie motioned to a monitor just being vacated. They moved forward.
“What should we type in?” Mandie asked.
“How about ‘Investing’?”
“Good answer. Do you want me to type?”
“Sure, you have much faster hands than I do.” Dan nudged her gently.
“Watch it buster.”
Mandie hit #1 “Subject Index,” then pressed “enter” on the keyboard.
The screen blanked then scrolled instructions, leaving a space to type in the subject of the search.
“Ready?” Mandie turned to Dan.
“Ready.”
“Okay.” She typed the word out and hit the “Search” key.
The screen blanked again, then a list scrolled down from top to bottom. The cursor rested next to “Investments and Investing: Handbooks”
“That looks like what we want,” Dan said. “Hit the key to bring up the references.”
Mandie did.
A tiny blinking word appeared on the screen, “Searching… Searching… Searching.” Then the screen filled with the information they wanted.
“There’s quite a bit here, Dan. Do we look through them all?”
“Let me see. Look at the titles and the references, are they all in the same place — I mean, are they all shelved in the same area?”
“Hmmm. Yes.” Mandie answered. “Why?”
“We can go to that shelf and pick out which ones we think it will be in. Then we can both carry a stack into the quiet study room and have a look. If we don’t find it, we can take another stack down until we’ve found it.”
“Won’t that get the librarians mad?”
“Not unless we tell them what we’re doing. Besides, the books are here to be looked through aren’t they?”
“Somehow, I don’t think they’d appreciate the fact that we’re using them for a scavenger hunt.”
“Then don’t tell them. Come on.”
Dan pulled Mandie away from the monitor and went among the stacks.
“Let’s see… Here we are.” Dan pointed at the row of shelves where the call number started. He scanned quickly realizing the topic took up five shelves — about 60 books.
“Which ones do we take first?” Mandie asked.
“Look for the screwiest titles. I mean, look for the ones that seem too good to be true. That’s where I found the last note.”
“What have you been reading?”
“Don’t worry, just look.”
Dan moved close to the shelf and started browsing through the titles. Quickly he pulled two down, and continued on down the shelf.
With a sigh, Mandie moved to the next shelf down and started doing the same.
Within a couple of minutes, each had an armload.
“Now what?” Mandie asked, trying to balance books of all different shapes. “Hurry. I don’t know how long I can carry these.”
“Follow me.” Dan moved down the row and turned to his right, bypassing the rest of the stacks heading towards the back of the library.
He came to the room marked “Quiet Study.”
“We can’t go in there,” Mandie said. “There’s other people in their trying to work.”
“We’ll be quiet. Come on.” Dan pulled open the door and stepped inside, holding it for Mandie.
Dan moved on to the back of the room, passing a few people studying in cubicles. At the far wall were flat tables with chairs surrounding them.
“Just what we need.” Dan put his armload down and reached for Mandie’s. “Sit down here. We can go through the books, then set them aside so we don’t get them mixed up.”
Mandie sat, and Dan stacked his books next to hers. He pulled out a chair, sat, and moved his stack over in front of him.
“Okay. Don’t worry about reading, just go through, page by page, and see if you find a note like the one before, okay?”
Mandie nodded, looking around as others in the room turned their way. She put her finger to her lips to shush Dan, then grabbed the first title, “Financial Kung Fu.”
Dan picked up his first book, “Money in the Markets” and flipped open the cover. He turned from page to page, found nothing. Occasionally, something would catch his eye, and he’d stop to read a moment.
“Honey,” Mandie whispered, nudging him. “Look here. We should be doing this.”
Dan looked where she was pointing. It was a subheading in a book entitled “IRA’s, Your Nest Egg for the Future.”
“We will. Soon.” Dan said. “Keep looking for the note, though.”
Mandie hesitated a moment, then nodded continuing to flip through pages.
Not much later, Mandie nudged Dan again.
“How much do we have in savings?”
“What?” Dan asked.
“How much do we have in savings?”
“I don’t know. We put a little aside whenever we can. You know that. Not much though.”
“We need to start putting more away, okay?”
“Are you still reading rather than looking?”
Mandie shrugged her shoulders.
“We’ll do our financial plan later, okay?” Dan said. “For now, let’s look for the note. Remember why we came?”
“But when? We always put it off.”
“First, we have to make enough money so we can afford to put more away.” Dan said.
“According to this,” Mandie picked up another book, “it doesn’t matter how much you make. It’s how you take care of what you have that’s important.”
“Let me see.”
Dan reached for the book, turning the cover over.
“Rich on Any Income.” Dan mumbled, looking back at Mandie. “Is it any good?”
“It’s really good. We should check it out and read it.”
“Okay. We’ll do that. And we’ll make our financial plan as soon as we can. But if we read each book, it’ll take forever.”
Mandie looked sheepish again. “Sorry,” she said.
Again they dove into the books.
***
Nothing. Not a thing in the first 18 books they’d gone through.
“We should keep a list of the books we’ve covered,” Mandie said. “There’s probably some checked out that may have the note in it, but we won’t know what’s missing unless we keep track.”
“Good idea.” Dan closed the final book in his stack. “Do you have something to write on?”
Mandie reached for her purse. She pulled out a pen, then dug around for some scratch paper. “Here we go.”
She quickly made a list of the books they’d covered, and set aside a few books she wanted to check out.
“Now what? Should we get the next stack?”
“Yep.” Dan stood and started gathering the books together into a stack.
Mandie followed suit, and followed Dan out of the room, back into the stacks.
“Do we reshelf them? That could take a while.” Mandie looked down the row to see if anyone were watching.
“Isn’t the library policy not to reshelf the books you’ve looked at? It says on the end of the row to just stack them in the cart for a librarian to put back.”
“Some librarian is not going to be happy.”
“They asked for it,” Dan said, carefully sliding the books off his arm onto the cart. “Here, let me help with yours.”
Then they headed back to the remaining rows of investment books.
“Fire two.” Dan said, reaching for a book.
“What if we don’t find it?” Mandie asked. “What if we’re looking in the wrong place.?”
“Then we try another angle.”
“What other angle?”
“We’ll worry about that if we have to. Now start grabbing books.”
“Okay, okay.”
***
About mid way through the next group of books Mandie squealed.
“I found it!”
Dan leaned over, then noticed the others in the room were staring.
“Sorry,” Mandie grimaced, as she held the note out for Dan.
“This is it all right.” Dan took the paper and smoothed the creases carefully across the flat of the table so they could both read.
“Dear Friend:
You found the second clue. You’re still with me — and pretty sharp to boot. I don’t know how long it took, but I didn’t try to make it too hard. There’s a reason for that, you know. I wanted you to get into some of these investment books. They’ve got some pretty good stuff in them.
I’m not a wiz at investing by any means, but the principles in these books apply just as much with your Ultimate Investment as they do with normal investing. Better, in fact!
As you look through these books, pick out the ones you think you’d like to read, then read them! The principles are powerful, and they’ll help you no matter what you do. You can never have too much knowledge.
Here are some principles to which I specifically want you to pay attention. They’ll have a big impact on the way you make your Ultimate Investment.
The first thing is to realize the power of INCREMENTAL INVESTING. In short, this means that if you invest just a small portion at a time, even though it’s not much, over the long term, it will grow HUGE. A small monthly investment earning compounded interest over a long period of time has created more millionaires in this country than any other thing. That’s the power of incremental investing. And there’s hardly any risk.
Next, as well as investing for the long term, you need to remember to invest for the short term too. Sometimes short term gains can really give you a jump towards your long term goals — as well as give you enjoyment, in the present.
Even though you’ll be investing mostly for the long term, set aside a little of the Ultimate Investment for highly speculative investments. You know, the “hot tips” you get from your brother-in-law. Or the deals that are too good to be true, and usually are. Most of these will never pan out, but you never know. The whole point, however, is that you put aside a certain “specified” amount away for things like that. No more than 1 percent of your total investment portfolio, and never more than you can easily afford to lose.
The beauty of this is, first, you get it out of your system. Second, you may get lucky.
Also make sure you keep a portion of your Ultimate Investment flexible in case of emergencies. Should the need arise, you would have some to draw on immediately. You don’t want all of your Ultimate Investment tied up so you can’t draw upon it in need.
Next, diversity your Ultimate Investment. This not only helps hedge against any one investment going bad, but will also help you see the different types of investments you may like. It’ll help you discover new ground, new territory. Who knows, you may hit on an investment that’ll be a real winner. Then you can move more of your Ultimate Investment into that area.
But don’t diversity so much that you dilute the effectiveness of any single investment. If you spread your Ultimate Investment too thin, you won’t have enough in any one area to really take off.
And finally, donate some of your Ultimate Investment to charity. This is an investment in something that goes beyond this life, and the returns are measured on a completely different scale. You’ll never regret it.
Since I’ve been talking so much about your Ultimate Investment, I think I should point out, many times the investments we make in our possessions ““ our things ““ you know, the TV, VCR, computer, cars, etc. really don’t bring us the happiness we think they will. When we die, we can’t take them with us. So it makes sense to invest in things that are more lasting. Even beyond the grave.
Which brings us to the third clue.
Invest a large amount of your Ultimate Investment in your family or you’ll lose everything else of real value.
See you at Clue # 3,
E.M. A.
“What do you think?” Mandie looked at Dan. His brows were furrowed in thought.
“Now I’m really confused.” Dan rubbed his chin. “Don’t have the faintest idea what it could be. The more I think about what she’s said, the more confused I get. She’s said it isn’t money, but it’s the only thing that fits.”
“Same for me,” Mandie said. “Ohh, look at the time. It’s past eight forty five.”
The lights in the library flickered once, warning the patrons it was closing time.
“Heck!” Dan said. “We’ll never get it solved at this rate.”
“We’d better go.” Mandie started gathering the books, making a separate stack of the ones she wanted to check out. Dan noticed and smiled.
“You’re starting to get into this aren’t you.”
“Well . . . What she said made sense. If we don’t have much savings set aside, we’ll need to tighten up a bit, start making regular monthly investments. Even if they’re small. Remember the power of, what did she call it, Incremental Investing? Maybe a mutual fund or something would be good. We need to start thinking about the future, you know.”
“That’s all I’ve been thinking about lately,” Dan sighed.
Chapter 6
“Honey, I’m home.” Dan walked in the door and followed his normal tired, end of a long day routine, yet tonight was different. There was more sag to his shoulders, and the lines around his eyes more pronounced. His walk was stiff and his stride shorter, slower.
“Dan, is that you?” Mandie came out from the kitchen, saw the difference at once. “Honey. What’s wrong?”
“Here.” Dan pulled an envelope out of his suit pocket and handed it to her.
“What’s this?”
“Read it.”
Mandie noticed it was corporate letterhead from Dan’s work. Her stomach tightened as she began to read.
To our Valued Employees:
As you know, economic times are tight. The demand for our products is still strong, but it has dropped considerably, due to the bad conditions facing most regions of the country. In addition to this, the competitive arena in which we operate has continued to become more and more fierce. The number of companies offering similar or substitute products to ours has increased much more drastically than forecasted, which has caused further pressures on our company.
While our company is still strong, and still among the top three in the industry, it can only remain so by all the members of our great organization banding together to help us all weather through these tough times. We have determined a number of measures which can help us all economize in the various divisions in which we operate, but these alone will not be enough. There are things that must be done on a company-wide level that will enable us to downsize to keep our company competitive. We realize that for many of you these measures will prove painful, but let us also assure you that as responsible upper management we are willing to set the example, tightening our own belts to a greater extent than we are asking you.
As of the first day of the month, all upper management salaries will be cut by 25%; regional management salaries will be cut by 15%; local management and outside sales people will have no cuts in their salary, however all future raises will be frozen for the time being. In addition, commissions and bonuses will be reduced by 15%.
After we have weathered through these tough economic times, it is our fervent hope that salaries, wages, bonuses and commissions can be reviewed and returned to their former level.
If you have any questions in regards to this matter, please see your immediate supervisor.
Regards,
Gordon L. Jensen
President
YASCO .”
Mandie put down the letter. “Wow.”
Dan had been staring out into space. He looked at her with weary eyes. “What do you think?”
“Doesn’t it make you mad?” Mandie asked.
“I guess it’s just par for the course.”
“But haven’t we been counting on those commissions and bonuses? Isn’t that the whole reason why you’ve been working so hard, putting in so much overtime?”
“It just goes to show what happens when you count on something.” Dan shook his head. “Maybe I’m wrong, but it seems like whenever we want anything good it’s a sure sign that we’ll never get it.”
“Come on, it isn’t that bad, is it?”
“Read for yourself.” Dan gestured at the letter.
Mandie hesitated. She looked at Dan. “What are you going to do?”
“What do you mean?”
“Just what I said . . . what are you going to do?”
Dan saw the worried look in Mandie’s eyes. He took a deep breath and let it out slowly. “Nothing. Remember our deal? Don’t worry, it’ll take a lot more than this to drive me off the deep end. Look on the bright side. At least there haven’t been any layoffs . . . Yet.”
Chapter 7
“Mandie, where are we?”
“Sssshhh!!”
“Oh, sorry.” That was Dan’s first clue. It was Friday night. Mandie had coaxed Dan into coming home early, and as soon as he had walked through the doorway, she had taken his briefcase, stripped off his tie and jacket, brought him more comfortable shoes, and put a blindfold on.
“Where are we going?”
“None of your business. Wait until we get there.”
“What’s this all about?”
“It’s a treat.”
“Oh, I like treats!”
“Watch it buster, or I’ll beat you.”
“Oooh, so dangerous.”
Mandie had loaded Dan into the car and drove, all the while had Dan tried to pry out their destination.
“Come on, Mandie, Dan said in a lower voice, “where are we?”
Mandie reached up and undid the blindfold. “See for yourself.”
Dan rubbed his eyes, adjusting to the light, then opened them to find himself standing in the foyer of the library with people walking by giving them both strange looks.
“Surprise! I thought you needed a break, and I also thought I’d help with our little bargain. I’ve been thinking ““ you’re not really happy with what you’re doing, and it seems the moment we think things will get better someone throws in a wrench. Maybe we ought to see this other little mystery through. Who knows? At the very least we’ll have some time away from the kids ““ you know, alone together.”
“I’d almost forgotten what that’s like,” Dan said. He looked around.
“Well,” Mandie said, “What are we waiting for?”
“What did you do with the kids, anyway?”
“Oh, they’re at their cousins. Come on.” Mandie strode from the foyer into the main lobby and up to the computer terminals. Dan followed.
“Now what?” Dan asked.
“Don’t you know?”
“I guess we try and figure out where the last clue leads us.”
“You’re so smart,” Mandie teased. “Okay hero. Have any ideas?”
“To tell you the truth,” Dan said, “I haven’t had much time to think about it.”
“But I’ve thought about it.” Mandie nudged Dan out of the way, wriggled her fingers and set them on the keyboard. She tapped in the word “˜family’ and hit the search button.
“Good guess,” Dan said.
“Guess, nothing. If there’s one thing I know, it’s when a woman is pointing to the word “˜family.’”
“Yeah, and that the word was underlined on the last clue.”
Mandie noted the call letters then they moved into the stacks searching for the right aisle.
“Same drill as before?” Dan asked as they stood in front of five shelves of books with the proper numbers and letters on their spines.
“Let’s do it a little different this time,” Mandie said. “How about if we just go through these shelves and pick out the titles that most intrigue us.”
“In any particular way?”
“No, just whatever you think looks good.”
“OK. Any particular reason?”
“Just call it intuition.”
Dan rolled his eyes.
“No, really. I think I see a pattern in these two clues — three when we find it.”
Dan reached up and pulled out a book. “Well, in each case we found the clue in a book that seemed to be kind of outlandish. At least it attracted our attention. I really think she wants us to find these clues.”
“If you’re right, she’s not making it very hard.”
“We’re not done yet.”
Mandie had pulled a couple of books from the shelf herself. After a bit they each had an armload and, like last time, found a table at the back of the quiet study room. Mandie pulled a note pad and pencil out of her purse. She set it on the table. Her stack of books was on her left.
“My, aren’t we being systematic.”
“Remember, last time the clue said to write down what books we wanted to check out. I figured the same thing applies to this, especially when we’re talking about families.”
Mandie shook her finger at Dan. “You may know business, but I know family. If the clue has anything to do with families I think it’ll help us to do the additional research, don’t you?”
“Oh, so now you know what the clue says?”
“Let’s just say I have a good hunch.”
“Interesting,” Dan said, and turned over his first book.
After awhile Dan nudged Mandie. “Here, look at this. It says “˜No other success can compensate for failure in the home.’ And look here.” Dan pointed to another paragraph. “”˜The most important work you will ever do will be within the walls of your own home.’ “
“That’s profound,” Mandie said.
“It’s also depressing.” Dan said.
“What do you mean?”
“It means I’m failing in this area too,” Dan said. “With the way I’m working I never spend any time with you or the kids. I’m failing in the home. And work is a bit shaky as well.”
“Come on,” Mandie reached over and rubbed his arm. “You’re a good dad. Whenever you have time you’re with the kids . . . and they love it.”
“At least if I had more time I know I’d do better.”
“Hon, I know you’re doing the best you can. Really, you’ve been great. We’ve got a roof over our heads, food on the table, and you always give us the best you’ve got even though you’re tired and wish you could just sit down in front of the TV and relax. I know the kids love it when you spend time with them.”
“Yeah, but you all deserve more.”
There was silence. “Come on,” Mandie said. “Let’s get back to work. We’ll find our answers.” Thirty minutes later . . .
“Oh no,” Dan said.
“What?” Mandie turned. “What’s wrong?”
“I guess you were right.” Dan pulled an old parchment out of the book he’d been reading. “I guess your intuition is strong as ever.”
Mandie glanced at the parchment, then at the book. She pursed her lips and shook her head. “Dan, is that the only book you’ve gone through since I’ve gone through all these?” She pointed to a high stack on her right.
“Well, it got interesting. I wanted to see what it had to say.”
Mandie reached over and flipped the book over, looking at the title. “Well, why don’t we take it with us. Heaven knows these other books have been too clinical for me. Any others in your stack good?”
Dan shrugged his shoulders. “That’s the only one I’ve looked at.”
Mandie took a deep breath and let it out. “Well, at least you found the clue. Let’s open it.”
Dan gingerly opened the paper and held it so they both could read.
“Dear Friend,
I’m glad you’re still with me. You’ve made it so far, but don’t be too smug. The last clue is much harder. Like I said, you’re going to have to work for this, but it will certainly be worth it. Speaking of being worth it, I can’t think of anything more “˜worth it’ than family.
Having a happy and loving family is one of the greatest items of wealth you can possess.
Your family should be your greatest priority. Because of this a large portion of your Ultimate Investment should be invested in your family. The book where you found this clue is a book you should keep and read. You’ll learn a great deal. The most important thing you’ll learn is that your family is your greatest asset. And it should be treated as such.
No matter whether you are rich or poor you can always have a wealth of love — in your family. Once again, you’ll see that the most important things in life have nothing to do with money . . . And neither should your success.
Let me explain. Money comes after you’ve been successful. Then only if your Ultimate Investment has been made toward that end.
The definition of success is a relative thing. For one, success is having a happy and loving family. For another, success is a high position in a corporation. To still another, success is a gold medal in a sporting event.
We need to get away from the notion that money equals success.
Which now brings us to the fourth clue: The Ultimate Investment is not something you obtain, it’s something that’s given to you each and every day . . . for free!
We all get the same amount.
It’s a gift.
No one gets any more than you, and no matter how rich you are, you can never buy more than what is specifically allotted to you.
However, you can use this Ultimate Investment the same as you use money. You can spend it, borrow it, waste it, or invest it.
Investing your Ultimate Investment should be watched as closely, if not closer, than any other investment you make. The way you apportion your Ultimate Investment ultimately determines your success or failure as a person. It determines what you do, how you do it, who you are, and who you’ll become. It also goes far beyond yourself. It extends to all around you — especially your family.
Not only does the Ultimate Investment determine your path, but to a great extent, the path of your family. It’s too precious to be taken lightly, but sadly, we all do.
Most people waste their Ultimate Investment and thereby waste their chances of ultimately becoming who and what they desire.
It’s a sad thing. A person who wastes his or her Ultimate Investment becomes poor in the truest sense of the word.”
See you at Clue #4
E.M.A.
Mandie looked up from the paper. “Well?”
Dan shook his head. “Stranger and stranger. To think of it, this Ultimate Investment is just like money, but it’s not. The intriguing part is we’re given this Ultimate Investment every day. So presumably, we have it right now and don’t know it.”
“I don’t get it, “Mandi said. “I thought I was on to something, but it blows what I was thinking.”
The lights in the library flickered. Over the intercom came “Dear patrons, the library will be closed in ten minutes. Please bring your check-out materials to the counter.”
“I guess that means us,” Mandie said.
Dan was sitting still deep in thought. “Yeah, OK. But I want to check out this book.”
“Sure,” Mandie said.
Chapter 8
“Dan, can we talk a moment?” Dan looked up and saw Frank Fisher, the area manager, with his arm draped over the top of the divider that separated all the sales desks. It was a little after five o’clock and the other reps had left. Dan nodded, pushed away from the desk, and followed Frank to his office.
“Have a seat.” Frank gestured to a chair while Frank went around behind his desk. There was silence between them for a moment. Frank was leaning back, his hands clasped behind the back of his head.
“Dan,” Frank began, leaning forward and resting his arms on the desk. “I asked you in here because you’re the best man I’ve got.”
Dan narrowed his eyes slightly. Trouble was coming. Frank picked up his letter opener and started moving it around in his fingers. “You know the company’s been having a tough time, cutting costs and all. Up until now there haven’t been any layoffs.”
Dan started to feel a pit opening in his stomach.
“Now,” Frank continued, “I’ve just received a memo from the home office. There’s going to be a 20% reduction in work force. Now before you get too worried,” he held up his hands, “most of those layoffs are coming from the home office, you know, middle management and all that stuff that’s been happening in other companies. Anyway,” Frank leaned back in his chair again. “I have to eliminate one sales position. Just didn’t want it to be a surprise to you, Dan, and I wanted to let you know not to be worried when it comes down.
Like I said, you’re the best man in this office. You don’t have anything to worry about. It’s the way the economy is right now, and our competition. The company’s looking to cut costs wherever it can.”
Dan was relieved but then worried for someone else. “Have you decided who?”
“Yes,” Frank said, nodding. “Told him yesterday. The others know, but I’ve asked them to keep it quiet. I wanted to talk to you before any of the others but you’re hardly in the office!”
“You know what they say,” Dan said. “You don’t make money sitting behind a desk. Who is it?”
“Philip Johnson. He’s low man on the totem pole.”
“He’s doing good!” Dan jumped in. “His sales aren’t that far behind mine. Sure he’s only got a couple of years in, but doesn’t his work count for something? Heck, he’s already selling more than Richards and Smithers combined!”
“I know, I know,” Frank held up his hands. ” But it’s seniority and loyalty.”
Quality work doesn’t count then, Dan thought. Before he could say it, he clenched his teeth.
“Well,” Frank said, swinging out of his chair and coming around the desk, “I wanted you to know so there wasn’t a big shock. Also wanted to let you know not to worry. Like I said, you’re my best man. I’ll do whatever I need to keep you on.”
Right, Dan thought, realizing he was lowest on the “˜totem pole’ now.
“Are you going to be here much longer?” Frank asked, shaking Dan’s hand?
“Oh, just a bit,” Dan said. “You know, paper work and all.”
“You’ll lock up then?”
Dan nodded and wandered back to his desk.
“And Dan,” Frank said to his back, “Remember, don’t worry.”
Chapter 9
“That does it for me,” Dan closed the book he was thumbing through, placed it on top of his pile. He looked over at Mandie. “Find anything in your stack?” She was slumped back in her chair in the quiet study room, shaking her head.
“Not a thing. That’s the third topic we’ve searched.” She leaned forward and started making notations on her scratch paper. “Let’s see, we’ve gone through Poverty, Gifts and Giving, Success/Guidebooks and now Asset Management. That makes four topics we’ve covered. She drew a line through each as she listed them. “Where does that leave us?”
“Looking in the wrong place,” Dan said, drumming his fingers on the table. “And right now I don’t have a clue as to where to look next.”
“Me either,” Mandie said.
Unspoken between them was still the tension of the layoffs at Dan’s work. Although Frank had said he shouldn’t worry, neither he nor Mandie felt comforted. Then almost as if on a whim, Mandie suggested they continue looking for the Ultimate Investment.
The next Saturday they’d made time to come to the library. After four hours of fruitless searching, they were at an impasse.
“You know,” Mandie continued, perking up a bit, “I have a feeling if we found this Ultimate Investment thing, it’ll turn out to be just what we’re been looking for.”
Dan smiled. This whole search thing had gotten under Mandie’s skin. She was unsettled about his job, grasping for any hope she could find. Dan knew how she felt.
“Let’s just think about this,” Dan finally said. He looked around the quiet study hall. They were alone so they could talk normally. “Maybe we can get the answer from the clues we already have. Dan reached into his shirt pocket and pulled out a paper. He unfolded it on the table.
“I’ve been making a list of what I think it could be. Why don’t we see if it jars any notion of what it could be.”
“You know, I’ve been thinking about that, too,” Mandie said. She reached into her purse and pulled out a similar paper, and copying Dan meticulously spread hers out in front of them. “Why don’t we compare notes?” She batted her eyebrows in a mischievous fashion.
Dan shook his head and smiled. “OK, you first.”
“Oh no, it was your idea,” she said. “You first.”
“OK.” Dan placed his forefinger on the first item on his list. “Let me just go down through these and then we’ll compare with yours and talk about them, okay?” Mandie didn’t answer, so Dan continued.
“So far I’ve got five possible things. First is Work, second is Desire; third is Persistence; fourth is Wisdom; and fifth is… I couldn’t think of anything else so I put Money.”
Mandie nodded, “Yeah, I’ve got pretty much the same list, but not in the same order. The only other one I’ve got that’s sort of related to Wisdom, is Intelligence, –you know, brain power.”
“Not bad,” Dan said.
“Yeah, not bad, but the problem is, none of them match. For one reason or another they just don’t fit.”
“You’re right,” Dan said.
“Oh, I just thought of one other,” Mandie said, leaning over to write on her paper. “What about Knowledge?” Does that work?”
Dan pursed his lips, thinking. “It fits most of the clues, but one.
“What’s that?” Mandie asked.
“Knowledge isn’t given to everyone equally, and you can’t really use up your knowledge; it’s just something that you continue to have.”
“Oh yeah,” Mandie hunched her shoulders again. “All of them fit a couple of clues but always leave one out.”
Take Work, for example,” Dan said. “Your Work can be invested, and it’s something you can do every day, but that’s the problem””not everybody is capable of working the same amount. And in the last clue it said that everybody is given the same amount each day no matter what. What if a person is sick or isn’t physically capable. It’s close, but I just don’t think that’s it.”
“I agree,” Mandie said, “It’s just like Wisdom. It fits two of the clues but once again Wisdom isn’t given to people in equal amounts. That last clue that threw me for a loop. I thought I was on to something until then.”
“I know!” Dan brightened. “What about Love?”
Mandie cocked her head, thinking. “That might be it. Everybody has the ability to love, and it’s something you do.” Mandie paused. “And Love is certainly something you should give to your family. It seems to fit.”
“But the problem is,” Dan interrupted, “how can Love be invested? And even if you can invest your love, how can it make you rich?”
“I didn’t know the point was to get rich,” Mandie said. “I thought it was just to make you happy. And then if you were happy, you’d feel rich. At least that’s what I kind of got out of the clues.”
“Well, yeah,” Dan admitted, “but maybe it fits together in a way we just don’t know, and the fourth clue puts it all together. The clues did talk about making money, if that’s what we’re working towards.”
“Maybe so. Even though Love seems to fit, I have a hunch there’s something else; something simple, but major that we’re missing.”
“Oh my mind needs a rest!” Dan rubbed his eyes.
“Mine too. You mind if I read the paper for a bit?” Mandie pulled it out of the purse.
“What else you got in there?” Dan leaned over to look inside. “Can I have the sports page?”
“Here. And no more cracks about my purse or I’ll hit you with it.”
***
“You’re not going to believe this,” Mandie said, putting the section of the paper she’d been reading down on the desk.
Dan lowered the sports section.
“What is it?”
“It’s in the business section,” Mandie said. “A lady is getting an award.”
“What does that have to do with anything?” Dan asked.
“Look.”
Dan leaned over to where Mandie was pointing. There was a picture with a caption underneath. “Elizabeth Margaret Ashton awarded a citation by the mayor for public service. Ashton, a prominent local dress designer, recently donated the proceeds from the auction of several of her new spring designs to St. Vincent’s youth home and workshop. About the donation, she simply said, “˜We need to invest in youth today if society is to have a future tomorrow’.”
Dan squinted at the picture. He recognized the mayor standing next to the president of the Chamber of Commerce, but then he scrutinized closely the elderly lady who was standing on the other side of the mayor, holding the framed public citation in front of her. She looked to be in her mid to late 70’s, elegantly dressed. Dan could tell she had class.
Dan turned to look at Mandie. She was staring at him.
“Well, what do you think?”
“This is nice, but I don’t see what . . .”
“Look at the name,” Mandie interrupted. “Elizabeth Margaret Ashton” ““ she pointed to each word as she said it.
“I can read.”
Mandie rolled her eyes. “What would the initials be, Dan?”
Dan looked back down at the newspaper, thinking. “The initials come out to be…” His eyes brightened. “E.M. A.!”
“Could this be the E.M. A.?” Mandie asked. “If you read the article, she talks about investment. Maybe I’m just reading too much into it.”
“Maybe . . .” Dan said. He hesitated. “Should we just phone her up and ask about the fourth clue? See if she’s the one, and would just tell us the answer? If she isn’t the right lady she’d think we were crazy. And she’d be right.”
“It couldn’t hurt, could it?” Mandie said. “There’s nothing to lose, other than some lady thinking we’re nuts. But what if she is the one?”
“There’s that,” Dan said. “Besides, we already know we’re nuts, what’s one more person?”
Mandie laughed. Dan liked the sound of it.
Chapter 10
“Wow, what a house!” Mandie exclaimed as Dan held open the car door. They were parked in front of a Victorian style mansion. Three levels rose in majestic lines, complemented by well-manicured grounds.
Flowering plants lined the sidewalk to the doorway. Beds of flowers accented grass and shrubbery, broken up here and there by tall magnolias.
“Are you sure we should do this?” Mandie asked.
“It was your idea, remember?” Dan said, “Besides, I called ahead and explained we’d found some papers in the library with her initials on them. She seemed to know what I was talking about. And she invited us over. I didn’t ask.”
“Still,” Mandie said, “look at this house!”
“I know,” Dan said, “but think about what we can learn. You’re the one whose always wanting to ask people who live in big houses what they do for a living. Now’s your chance.”
They climbed the steps to the covered porch. Creeping vines covered the white trellises on either side. Dan reached out and touched the door chime. Inside bonging sounds announced their arrival.
“Wait, Dan,” Mandie whispered. “We’re early ““ we’re imposing.”
“Come on, Mandie, it’s OK; we’re only a couple of minutes early. Relax!”
The burnished wooden door whooshed open. Behind it an elegantly dressed diminutive woman greeted them. Gray hair in a bun, her features were soft. She extended a graceful hand. “You must be Dan.”
Dan gingerly reached forward and took hers. He was afraid he’d break it. “Yes, I’m Dan. This is my wife, Mandie.” He gestured to Mandie. The lady took Mandie’s hand. “It’s a pleasure to meet you. Come inside, won’t you?”
They stepped onto marble tile. To Dan it seemed the entryway was the size of their whole house. Wingback chairs, vases, paintings, tall plants, all were arranged with quiet dignity.
“Come this way, won’t you?” the lady moved toward a room off the entryway, which was no less elegantly appointed and about half the size of the entryway. High walls were lined with bookshelves. Placed about the room were deeply cushioned chairs and settees on which a person could place their feet while reading. In the center was a grouping of two more wingback chairs and a facing love seat. Off to its side sat a dark mahogany table with a simple chair under in which a person doing serious study could spread out.
“Won’t you sit down?” the lady indicated the love seat and she in turn took a seat in one of the wingback chairs. “Allow me to introduce myself. My name is Elizabeth Margaret Ashton. You may call me Lizzie.”
“Thank you . . . Lizzie,” Dan said. “We appreciate your inviting us over.” He felt like he would stumble over his words like a hick from the country.
“You have a beautiful house, Mandie jumped in, “and it’s decorated so lovely. I could spend hours just admiring everything ““ it’s wonderful!”
“Thank you, Mandie, that’s surely nice of you, and thank you both for coming over to see me. I had begun to wonder if anyone would ever find those messages, thinking maybe someone had found them and thrown them away. I was beginning to get worried!”
“So it was you who wrote the clues.” Dan leaned forward, pulling the papers out of his shirt pocket.
“Oh yes, it was me,” Elizabeth smiled, “but I wrote them some years ago and haven’t heard a word since. Say, how did you figure out it was me?
“Mandie saw your picture in the paper with the mayor.”
“Oh, that,” Elizabeth groaned. “I try so hard to stay out of the limelight, but sometimes these politicians just insist. If they don’t have their picture in the paper every so often, they think people will forget who they are.”
“We’re grateful this time,” Mandie smiled. “When we saw your picture and your name, we made a really big guess it was you writing the clues.”
“Tell me, how many have you found?” Elizabeth asked.
“So far, only three.” Dan held them for Elizabeth to take. “We’ve had trouble finding the fourth.”
“You’ve done pretty well,” Elizabeth said, unfolding the papers and setting them on her lap. “Where have you looked for the fourth clue?”
Mandie listed off the topics they’d searched. Elizabeth closed her eyes and nodded her head as if remembering where she had placed the fourth clue. “Oh, you’re very close,” she said, “but not quite there. I’m sure you’ll find it ““ just keep thinking and looking.”
“Well,” Dan stammered, “we were hoping you might give us another hint as to where we could look?”
“Oh, Dan, that wouldn’t be fair. Remember, I told you that we only treasure things we have to work for. It would certainly be a disservice to tell you. If it came too easy you’d not truly value what it is. I mean, the Ultimate Investment is so simple, almost everyone disregards the treasure that it is.”
There was silence for a time. Then Elizabeth asked, “Tell me, have you been guessing at what the Ultimate Investment is?”
“Oh, we’ve certainly been doing that,” Dan said. “We’ve made a list but so far we’ve only got one thing that could possibly fit.”
“Oh, and what is that?” Elizabeth leaned forward, eager to hear.
“It’s Love,” Mandie said.
“Oh, how wonderful,” Elizabeth said. “It does fit, doesn’t it? And it’s so important. Even though it’s is an important part of the Ultimate Investment, I’m afraid it’s not the one and only.” Elizabeth nodded, resting a finger on the tip of her chin. “Any attribute that fits the clues is an important part of the Ultimate Investment. But there is only one Ultimate Resource on which all the rest are based, and from which you can make the Ultimate Investment.”
“Well maybe you can help us out in another way, then,” Dan said. “Maybe you can tell us how Love ties into the Ultimate Investment. Could you do that?”
“Oh yes, I could do that,” Elizabeth agreed. “Let me do it in a way you can really understand.” She paused, looking at the ceiling, then said, “Dan, what do you do for a living? If you were happy in your work you wouldn’t have found the clues.”
Dan and Mandie looked at each other. “I’m a sales rep for ARSLO Industries. I sell manufactured products to businesses. I provide them with training on how to use our products as well as help them determine how best to utilize the resources we can provide.”
“That’s a very good sales pitch, Dan,” Elizabeth smiled. “You must be very good at what you do.”
“Well, I do okay,” Dan said.
“He does wonderful!” Mandie put her hand on Dan’s knee. “He works hard and he’s the best in his office. He’s not paid half what he’s worth. Especially now that they’ve cut the bonuses!”
“Dan, you’re lucky to have such a supportive wife.”
“I know,” Dan said, but he was a little embarrassed by Mandie’s fervor.
“Tell me, Dan,” Elizabeth leaned forward in her chair, staring directly into Dan’s eyes. “Can you tell me you love what you do?”
Dan was taken back. “I know I like what I do,” he hedged.
“Say no more.” Elizabeth held up her hand. “Let me tell you about my friend. His name is Charles and he works in a foundry, not because he has to, but because he wants to. Charles has a Ph.D. in physics and before he went to work at the foundry, he had numerous offers for work, all of which would have brought him enormous sums of money in consulting. He tried it for awhile but he decided to go to work at the foundry, operating a big press machine ““ a loud, rattley monster. I asked him about it one day. He said working at the foundry gives him enough money to live on and it’s monotonous enough that he can do exactly what he wants as he works.
“You see, Dan, his favorite thing to do is to compose poetry. As long as he doesn’t make any mistakes, he leaves his earplugs in, watches that big machine chomp and maul the metal passing through it and composes poetry all day long. When he leaves work, he leaves work behind. There’s nothing else he has to worry about. When he gets home he takes about an hour and writes out the poetry he’s composed and memorized for that day. On weekends he takes a few hours and sends it out for publication. If you were into poetry you’d recognize his name. He’s up for several major awards this year — all with substantial cash prizes and a great deal of prestige. Still, he and his wife live in a small house, he drives a clunker of a car. The object is, he’s doing exactly what he wants. Can you say that?”
“No, I guess I can’t,” Dan said.
“And that’s why you’re miserable. What made you get into this line of work anyway?”
Dan thought a minute. “Well I guess when I started, I looked at it and said “˜this is a good chance for me to make some money.’”
“So you got into it for the money, did you? Has the money been what you expected?”
“No!” Mandie said.”
“What do you mean?” Elizabeth smiled at Mandie then looked at Dan. “Is she right?”
“The potential is there,” Dan said, “but it just doesn’t seem to be working out.”
“Why do you think that is? What causes you not to make as much money as you should?”
“Nothing, really, in fact I’m working harder than most. I’m not the top in the company but I’m top in my office. I suppose I could make more money. I know what I’d need to do. It’s just that, well, I wouldn’t feel good about it. I can’t sell more to my customers than what they need. It wouldn’t be good for them. I could find new customers, and I do, but I want to make sure I provide the service they need. I suppose that’s the main thing that holds me back. I don’t want to become a “pushy” salesperson that’s always trying to talk someone into buying something they don’t need. Or make a customer a promise I know I can’t keep. I suppose that’s why I don’t make more money.”
“Why don’t you have them hire you an assistant?” Elizabeth asked. “Surely you’d be able to expand your reach if you had help. There’s something else in this isn’t there. And be careful, Dan, this is the key.”
Dan thought a minute, and finally shook his head. “You’re right. The secretaries would help more if I’d train and let them. It’s just that I can’t make myself do any more. I’m burned out.” Dan was surprised he’d opened up so much. He was saying things he didn’t even realize he felt ““ until now.
“You’re not burned out. I know what it is, and I want you to listen close and tell me if I’m not right.” Elizabeth jabbed her finger in Dan’s direction.
“Your problem is that your heart isn’t in it. You don’t love what you do. In fact, you’ve gotten so you resent going to work. You hate it, don’t you?”
“I don’t hate it.”
“But you don’t love it.” It was a statement.
“No. I guess I don’t.”
“There’s the key! And that’s why love ties in with the Ultimate Investment. To find happiness you should invest your Ultimate Resource in something you love.
Dan thought a minute then nodded.
Chapter 11
Dan was in the office, working late, reviewing orders. An envelope flopped onto his desk. He looked up to see Frank with a strange expression on his face.
“I’m really sorry, Dan. I was hoping this wouldn’t happen. I did everything I could, but I had no choice.”
“What’s this?” Dan asked. He picked up the envelope and started to tear it open. A pit opened in his stomach.
“Sorry, Dan, the next round of layoffs have come down. I have to cut this office back by one more person.”
“You mean I’m being laid off?” Dan said agape. “But I thought you said my job was safe ““ that I was the best person in the office, that you’d protect me.”
“Honest, Dan, I did what I could. The home office said I had to cut back; there’s just no other way to do it.”
“What do you mean, no other way to do it? What about the other two salesmen? They don’t sell half what I do combined. Lay one of them off.”
“Look, Dan, you know my position on that. Both of have been here years longer.”
“I know, I know,” Dan said, “and seniority has to count for something. What about hard work? Doesn’t that count for anything? What about production? Doesn’t that count?”
“I’m really sorry, Dan, I can’t do it any other way.”
“Yeah, right,” Dan said.
“Look on the bright side,” Frank said. Dan snapped his head up and glared at Frank. “You’re going to get a month’s severance, assistance in your job search, and additional training if you need it. If I could do more, I would. You know that.”
Dan took a deep breath and let it out slowly. “Okay. Thanks, Frank.”
“Hey,” Frank said, “are you going to be here much longer? Do you think you could lock up? I’m on my way out.”
“Sure,” Dan said.
“Thanks, Dan, I appreciate it. And I’m really sorry. If I can help you with anything, anything at all, just let me know. In fact, tomorrow morning, first thing, I’ll write a letter of recommendation for you. How would that be?”
“That would be good, Frank, thanks.”
Frank patted Dan on the shoulder, then walked over to the door, pulling it shut behind him.
Dan leaned back in his chair, staring at the ceiling. The dreaded moment finally had come. “I guess I finally got paid for doing a good job.” He sat thinking. His desk was littered with orders. He leaned forward with one arm and swept them all into the trash can. Standing, he looked around the office, slowly began gathering his belongings, and snapped them into his briefcase. At the doorway he took one last look at the office, reached over and flipped off the light, and stepped out the door, locking it behind him.
Dan moved slowly through the parking lot until he reached his car, unlocked the back door, and set his briefcase onto the seat. He loosened his tie and undid his shirt collar, then unbuttoned and rolled up his sleeves, all the while wondering what he should do. He got in the car and started up the engine, thinking he should just go home and break the news to Mandie. He put the car into gear and pulled out onto the road, only half paying attention to what he was doing. His thoughts began to wander. How can I break this to Mandie? She was stressed before. This will really put her over the edge.
Dan pulled out into the street and drove. No destination, no direction, just driving. How could this happen? I’ve done a great job. All I do is get beat down. Maybe God has it in for me.
A honking horn shook Dan alert and he swerved back into his own lane. He was more than half way home and didn’t realize he’d headed in that direction. I should go to the library, he thought. Maybe this time I’ll find that fourth clue. Dan’s mind was numb, he knew, but couldn’t do anything to change it. He was grasping.
Mandie and he had been to the library three more times. Still no magical fourth clue. It sounded stupid, but something told Dan it was critical now. That it would somehow make all the difference. His mind told him, in a detached way, he was in shock. What could make such a difference?
His mind continuing in its numbed path, Dan mentally rehearsed the topics they’d searched trying to decide what he should look at next. A couple came to mind. He dismissed them quickly. Dan pursed his lips in thought. Suddenly his eyebrows raised and his eyes brightened. “I know where I can find it!” Dan looked over his left shoulder, flicking on the turn signal. He pulled into the left lane. At the next intersection he whipped around in a U-turn, his tires squealing.
Chapter 12
“Why Dan, please come in?” Elizabeth backed away from the door and gestured for him to come inside. “It’s so nice to see you again. Let’s go into the library and we can chat.” He followed Elizabeth into the library and took the same seat as before. “Tell me Dan,” Elizabeth said after she had settled herself, “how goes the search?”
“Not good,” Dan said. “We’ve been back several times. Still haven’t had any luck.”
“Oh, I see. Well, keep after it. I’m sure you’ll find it soon.”
“That’s what I was hoping to ask you about.”
“What do you mean?”
“Well, it’s like this.” Dan rattled off the topics he and Mandie had searched, then sat back further in his chair. “We haven’t been able to find it. I was wondering if it was gone. Have you checked lately?”
“Why yes, I was there two days ago,” Elizabeth said. “The clue’s still there. You’re so close. Just go back to that third clue. Think of anything that would associate with it and I’m sure you’ll zero in before long.”
Dan hesitated, then nodded, leaning forward, resting his arms on his knees.
“Dan, what’s wrong? Is something troubling you?”
Dan was quiet, then raised his head to look at Elizabeth. “I was laid off today.”
“Oh, that’s horrible,” Elizabeth said. “I thought you were doing well.”
“So did I,” Dan said, shaking his head, “I guess that doesn’t matter. Seniority is important. Production isn’t.
“That’s stupid. Just . . . stupid!” Elizabeth said.
“That’s what I thought too,” Dan said. “They laid off the two best salesmen in the region. We got bumped in favor of seniority.”
“No wonder your company is struggling,” Elizabeth said. She was quiet for a while, then. “Who knows, maybe it’s a blessing. Now you can find a company that’ll appreciate your work.”
“Yeah, whatever,” Dan said.
“You’re really discouraged, I see. You need to find that fourth clue. It will make all the difference. I just know it! It has for everyone else, you know.”
“Look, Elizabeth,” Dan said, sliding to the edge of his chair. “Couldn’t you just tell me? Give me a hint? Mandie and I know it’s out there and we need to grab it. Please, I need some good news I can take home. Think of Mandie, if nothing else.”
Elizabeth folded her hands in her lap and bowed her head. “I’m sorry Dan. I can’t. I hope you understand.”
“But I don’t understand!” Dan erupted. The pain and shock of the day’s bad news had finally started to flow, releasing his tension in a torrent. “It’s just a silly clue. A piece of paper! All you have to do is give me a hint!”
Elizabeth remained still. She didn’t say anything, didn’t look at Dan.
He took a deep breath. “I can see I’m wasting my time.”
Elizabeth’s head snapped up. “Do you really believe that? Doing you really think you’re wasting your time?”
“Why not? You won’t help me.”
Elizabeth had a shocked look on her face. “You mustn’t think you’re wasting your time. Searching for the Ultimate Investment is the most important thing you can do ““ especially now!”
Dan looked at her, waited. When she didn’t say anything else he spoke. “I appreciate what you’ve tried to do for us. Even though it doesn’t seem to be working.”
Elizabeth shook her head. “I’m sorry, Dan. I’ve given all the hints I dare, some of which you haven’t even noticed, I’m afraid. It would be a disservice if I told you more. All your hard work would be meaningless.”
“I guess I better be going, then. Have a nice day.” Dan stood and walked to the door. He didn’t notice the tear rolling down Elizabeth’s cheek as he pulled it shut behind him.
Chapter 13
“Hi, Honey, I’m home.” Dan threw the coat he had draped over his arm onto the couch, and loosened his tie. Mandie came in from the kitchen.
“How’d the interview go?”
“Same as the others,” Dan said. He set his briefcase down and hugged Mandie. “Don’t worry, something’ll happen soon; I’ll have a job again.”
Mandie didn’t say anything. She stared into his eyes with a strange intensity. Finally Dan said, “What’s wrong.”
“Just a minute,” Mandie said. She left Dan and walked back into the kitchen. She came back with a newspaper clipping and held it out for Dan. His eyes grew wide.
“It’s Elizabeth, Dan. She died two days ago. That’s her obituary.”
Dan crumpled the paper in his clenched fist and without a word, walked back out the door. Mandie stood at the window, watched him climb in the car and back out onto the street. Tires screeched as he pulled away. Mandie held herself tight.
Dan pulled up to the curb and climbed out of the car. He took the steps of the well-manicured residence to the porch and pounded on the front door. He turned around, facing the street, wiping his mouth. The door whooshed open and Dan spun. He was facing a medium sized man, a high forehead and red-tinted blonde hair combed from the side. He was dressed in an open collar and slacks. Dan stared. He couldn’t think of anything to say.
“May I help you?” the man finally said.
“Um, my name is Dan. I knew Elizabeth before she . . .” Dan hesitated. “I don’t know what to say — I’m really sorry.”
“Thank you,” the man said. “Won’t you come in? I’m Elizabeth’s son, Michael.”
Dan numbly shook Michael’s hand and was pulled into the entryway. “It’s nice of you to come by,” Michael said. “How did you know my mother?”
“Well, we were just acquaintances — I only talked with her a few times. She was helping me with . . .” Dan didn’t know how to describe their relationship. “What I mean to say is, she was helping me with . . . some things.”
“Oh, I see,” Michael said. Dan could tell he didn’t.
“Uh, Michael,” Dan stammered, realizing he was out place, “I’m sorry to have disturbed you. I just wanted to express my condolences. That’s all. She was really a special lady.” Dan shook Michael’s hand and turned to leave.
“Wait a minute. You said your name was Dan?”
“Yes?”
“I think I have something for you. Just a moment.” Michael walked into the library and came back with an envelope. “Is your last name Benjamin?”
“It is.”
Michael held out the envelope. Dan saw his name, written in the same hand he’d come to recognize. “This is for you, then. I don’t know what it is, but I found it on the table in the library. Mother must have written it in the last few days. She was probably expecting you to come by and pick it up.”
Dan swallowed hard and nodded. “Thanks.” There was an uncomfortable silence. Finally Michael said, “You’ll be coming to the funeral?”
“Oh yes, I’ll be there,” Dan answered. “And thank you again. It’s nice to meet you, and I’m really sorry. Your mother will be sorely missed.” Dan turned and walked to the door. Michael came quickly and held it open. “Thanks for stopping by, Dan. Maybe I’ll see you some other time.”
“Yes, thanks,” Dan walked through the doorway and out to his car. He got inside, sat down, and held the envelope in his lap. All sorts of self-recriminations came and went through his mind. He’d only talked with Elizabeth two times, but for some reason he felt a deep connection. A bond that had formed the moment he found the first clue, even before he knew who she was. It sounded silly even to himself, but he couldn’t deny what he felt.
If only he hadn’t left in anger. If he’d only have come by earlier to make amends. If only . . . the “˜if only’s’ stretched out endlessly. It was too late.
He held up Elizabeth’s last message, tore it open, and pulled out a sheet marked with familiar script:
Dear Dan,
I’m sorry you haven’t come back. After you left I felt quite bad. I know you’re going through such a hard time, and I wish I could make it easier.
For the last few days I’ve been experiencing some strange feelings. They’re hard to explain, but I’ve been around long enough to know better than to ignore them.
One of these feelings is that I should help you; give you the fourth clue. Here it is. If you wish to find it at the library look under the topic “Waste and Waste Management.” I forget which book it’s in. It’d be easy to find. There aren’t many books in that section.
If you haven’t discovered the source of your Ultimate Investment by now, hopefully this will do the trick. If not, keep searching. You won’t regret it. I promise.
There are so many personal resources we have that we often take them for granted. There is no resource taken for granted more than the Ultimate Investment. It’s a waste!
You can waste your money, and earn more. You can waste your strength, and build it up again. You can even waste your love, and still love again.
Any resource can be restored, rebuilt, re-found, reaffirmed, or re-gathered. All except the Ultimate Investment. Once it’s been spent it can never be reclaimed. Once it’s gone, it’s forever lost. The problem is, we think we have so much of it, we’ll never run out. So it becomes our most wasted commodity — when it should be our most precious.
If we waste some today, there’ll always be more tomorrow. If we take some now, there’ll always be plenty another day. That’s what many think. But it’s the greatest lie of our age!
Talk with someone who still thinks he has plenty. He’ll tell you not to worry, there’s enough. Talk with someone who’s about to run out. He’ll say he didn’t have near enough. If he had just a little more, he’d run around and invest it in those things he should have spent it on earlier. By then it’s too late.
When your Ultimate Investment runs out, there’s no purchasing more, no matter how much you’re willing to pay.
And so, Dan, remember. How you spend your Ultimate Investment is something for which you will ultimately be held accountable.
I pray that when you finally discover what it is, you’ll invest yours only in things you love, for it is too precious to waste on anything else.
Goodbye.
Love,
EMA
Dan put down the letter, staring straight ahead. Suddenly his red, moist eyes grew wide. A smile started at the corner of his lips and grew. He slapped his hand on the steering wheel. “That’s it! It’s so simple! I should have seen it sooner!” Dan put the letter back in the envelope, started the ignition, and started for home.
Dan pulled open the front door. Mandie stood from the couch. “Is everything all right?”
“Wait, Mandie. I can’t talk right now.” Dan held up his hands so she wouldn’t pursue the matter, picked up his briefcase from where he’d left it, and hurried up to the bedroom. Mandie stared for a minute, then sat again, waiting.
Dan set the briefcase on the end of the bed and snapped it open. Pulled out a legal pad, got out a pen, and leaned back against the headboard. He held the tip of the pen to his mouth, pondering, then clicked the mechanism and began to write.
He wrote fast, as if inspired, the words flowing without hesitation. He wrote until he had nothing more to write, then Dan set the pen down and looked at what he had written. “So simple,” he mumbled. “So precious and powerful. Elizabeth had been right — it was worth it.”
Dan stared at the ceiling, closing his eyes, thinking about how he could put his Ultimate Investment to work. He opened his eyes and looked at his scratch pad. He tore out the pages and carefully set them aside. Then at the top of the clean page he wrote: “Putting the Ultimate Investment to Work.”
For the next two hours Dan sat, intermittently writing and thinking. When he was done he set the pad aside with his pen on top, mentally checking through, making sure he had made allowances to invest in every important area of his life. And for his work, this time he would invest in something he loved and really wanted to do, not merely for the sake of making money.
Then he picked up the pad, tore out the pages, and got up from the bed. He pulled and envelope and file folder from his briefcase. On the envelope he wrote “The Ultimate Investment”. He folded the pieces of paper together neatly and inserted them into the envelope, licking and sealing the top. On the file folder he wrote “The Ultimate Investment ““ Notes & Plans” into which he inserted the papers. He would refer to it often, and continue to plan and invest. Daily if necessary to make sure he was staying on track. He snapped the briefcase shut and set it by his nightstand. Then he took the envelope and walked into the front room looking for Mandie.
She was in the kitchen noisily clanking pots and dishes. She was either angry, nervous, or both. He glanced at his watch. He hadn’t realized how much time he’d taken. It had only seemed like a few moments to him. Dan looked around the room. Finally his eyes lighted on their family portrait. Walking over, pulled it off the wall and carefully placed the envelope on the back, between the picture and frame. “This should be a good place,” Dan said. “At least until I know it’s going to work.” He hung the picture taking care to make sure it was straight. Then, wandered into the kitchen.
Mandie stopped her work when Dan entered. “You okay?” she asked.
Dan walked over, folded her in an embrace, kissed her forehead. “Everything’s going to be fine!” he said.
Chapter 14
“I can’t believe it’s been five years!” Dan looked around his empty front room. The house was bare, stripped of everything. Hardly anything had gone to their new home . . . almost three times this size. He shook his head. Such a drastic change. I haven’t worked harder — less actually. But I’ve been more effective. Had more passion. Dan thought about the difference.
Mandie and the kids were at the new house arranging the new furniture. The only thing left was the old family portrait still hanging slightly askew on the wall. Dan had sent Mandie and the kids on ahead so he could have some quiet time to look around, and say goodbye.
He smiled. Funny I should be so attached to this house. I didn’t even like it back then. But here I am, new career, new life, new house.
Dan walked to the picture frame, took hold of each side and lifted it off its hook. An aged envelope fluttered to the floor.
“I’d forgotten this was here.” He set the picture down and picked up the envelope. He tapped it in his hand, then sat, his back against the wall and carefully peeled it open.
This was it, Dan thought. This is what made all the difference!
He smoothed the paper’s folds, held it reverently as he read aloud the words in simple memorial to Elizabeth Margaret Ashton, who with this simple secret had bequeathed him a new life.
The Ultimate Investment
What’s the difference between me, and someone who’s rich? Between me, and someone who’s successful? Is it education? Is it luck? Does come from skill? A special ability? Is it not what you know, but who you know? I don’t think so.
It’s none of these.
As I think of everyone I know who is successful, what is the one common denominator responsible for their success? — I can’t say it’s money like I used to. I realize now that money comes only after a person has been successful. And only if money is what he or she was working for.
Take the man who’s just retired after 40 years of loyal service to his company? What about a mother whose kept her family together in spite of being widowed at a young age? What about the child whose overcome a life threatening illness, or a marriage that’s lasted 76 years. These are all successes, but they have nothing to do with money.
Here’s what I think. The difference between me, and those who are successful lies in something very unique, very special. And funny thing, it’s also quite simple. Some would call it a secret. I won’t, because now I know better.
This difference lies in making an investment. Not just any investment. But The Ultimate Investment.
What’s the Ultimate Investment?
The Ultimate Investment, if made wisely, will make me wealthy, keep me healthy, and bring me happiness. It will ease my pain, enhance my wisdom, and help me achieve anything I want. And more.
Where do I find the Ultimate Investment? I don’t. It finds me. And will continue to find me every single day for the rest of my life. No matter where I am, or what I’m doing, I’ll get my daily share. For free!
It’s the same amount for everyone. No matter how much money they make or how loudly they complain, they’ll never invest more than me.
From now on I’ll make the most of my Ultimate Investment!
I’ll leverage it, hide it, give it, trade it, spend it, squander it, borrow it, or waste it. Whatever is appropriate.
I’ll measure it, take it, fill it, steal it, lend it, use it, lose it, or kill it, and still invest more the very next day.
No longer will it be ordinary and forgotten. From now on it’s a precious resource!
I will to treat my Ultimate Investment more reverently than priceless gems, more respectfully than antique books, and spend it more prudently than my last paycheck.
Nothing will stand in my way.
I’ll invest heavily in work, waste some for fun, give some to charity, and spend lots of it on my wife and children.
I’ll loan some to a friend, give some to the poor, and of course, keep a little just for myself.
This Ultimate Investment, compounded daily throughout my life, ultimately determines who I am. Will I be Rich or poor, happy or sad, a success or a failure? The choice is mine.
It’s my most sacred gift, my most thoughtless expense.
My most inexpensive commodity, my most priceless treasure.
The Ultimate Investment is . . . MY TIME!!!
Dan closed his eyes and leaned his head back against the wall. Tears gently lined his cheeks. Elizabeth had been right. It was so simple yet so powerful. The Ultimate Investment was an investment in life. In living life to its fullest.
Chapter 15
Dan sat at the desk in his new study. The room was dark save for a desk lamp shining a confined glow down onto the desk’s surface. It was late and Dan couldn’t sleep. Something was nagging at him, a restless tick in the back of his mind, telling him he had something he needed to do. It had been bothering him for some time, but tonight it had grown to the point it couldn’t be ignored.
He sat, the light-glow not reaching his face, only lighting the desk-top, like a barrier he needed to cross before he could rest. Dan pulled open a drawer, drew out a paper and pen, sat them on the desk. He leaned back in his chair, contemplating. It always helped him to write out his thoughts, whatever they were.
Dan reached forward, taking hold of the pen and putting it to the paper. Nothing came. He closed his eyes, allowing his mind to go blank, breathing deep.
There! He knew what it was. The thought eased into the forefront of his mind with such gentleness it reminded him of someone he’d not thought about for a long time.
Dan smiled. “I get the message,” he said to the darkness, then leaned into the lamp’s glow and began to write . . .
Dear Friend:
If you’re reading this letter, then you need my help . . .
** The End of the Beginning **
Appendix:
Transcribed from Dan’s Actual Notes
“Putting The Ultimate Investment to Work”
What do I really want to do with my life? If I didn’t have to worry about money, and could do anything at all, what would I do? That’s the first question I have to answer. The next question is equally important. What type of person do I want to become? These two questions are tied together, but separate.
Once I know the answers, I’ll know where I want to end up and how I want to get there. I’ll have a goal to shoot for. Then I can put the Ultimate Investment to work.
Part 1: My Occupation
Step 1: Identify what I want to do. That’s a hard question. Right now, I don’t know. I should make a list of all the possible things I think I could do, or would like to do. I should also talk with Mandie. She knows me better than I know myself.
I should also think about the type of lifestyle I want. Leave money out of the equation! I made that mistake before. I want to earn enough to live on, true, but I have a feeling that if I love what I do, then I’ll be successful — and the money will take care of itself. Ignore money right now and think about what I’d like to do with the rest of my life.
What type of work would I like? What type of work am I best suited for? What best fits my personality? Looks like another trip to the library might be at hand to look over books about occupations. Mandie will want to help with this, I’m sure.
Step 2: Once I’ve identified what I want to do as an occupation, I need to figure out what it takes to become successful in that occupation. It doesn’t matter if I don’t qualify for it right now. I have the Ultimate Investment on my side. If it takes additional schooling or additional training, I’ll need to invest the time to do it. If it allows me to do something I really love, then the investment will be well worth it.
It reminds me of Hank Childers who pumped gas at an airport, fueling planes for a living. He had a wife and two young kids. I thought he was crazy at the time. Now he’s a pilot. He was investing his time, hanging around the airport, figuring out ways to build up flight hours, until he had enough hours to qualify for a pilot’s job. HE USED THE ULTIMATE INVESTMENT. NOW HE’S DOING EXACTLY WHAT HE ALWAYS WANTED!
He also makes great money. But it didn’t start out that way. Hank had to make the Ultimate Investment first!
I also remember Mark Shumway, who spent 12 years working as a piano player with a group of musicians in a Nashville amusement park. They finally caught the attention of a major record producer and got a record deal. This launched them all toward becoming one of country’s top music groups. THEY ALL MADE THE ULTIMATE INVESTMENT, AND THE RETURN IS STILL GROWING!
I need to talk with people who are doing what I want to do. I need to find out exactly what makes them successful and happy. If there isn’t anyone around who’s doing what I want, then I need to go to the library and read up on it. There’s got to be many things I can study up on. If it ends up being something completely new, then I need to sit down and do my best to figure out BEFORE HAND what it will take to be successful in that area.
Step 3: Once I have this all written down, I’ll determine how much of the Ultimate Investment I can “˜invest’ each week. If it takes additional training, additional time to get set up, or finding the right job, I’ll have to take something now that might not be exactly what I want. It’ll keep food on the table, and a house over our heads, and then I’ll use the Ultimate Investment to eventually get where I want to end up.
I’ll know what I need to do. I’ll map it out. Then all I need to do is invest the TIME!
Following the plan will be easy. I just have to invest my TIME each week. Investing a little each day will add up fast. If I work at it two hours a day, over a year, I’ll have invested over 600 hours. If I’m doing what I love, then it should fly by. Before I know it, I’ll be in the saddle, doing what I love to do.
Part 2: Who I want to Become
Step 1: In 50 years, how do I want to be remembered? What type of person do I want to become? If I leave it to chance, there’s a chance I won’t like how I turn out. Better to invest the time now to decide. Then little by little, year after year, I’ll use the Ultimate Investment to make myself the man I most want to be. I need to think on this.
I want to be a good husband. What does that take? What does a good husband do? How does a good husband treat his wife? I need to list specific characteristics and incorporate them into my life, using the Ultimate Investment to make them permanent.
I want to be a good father. How does a good father act? How much time does a good father spend with his family? Is being a good husband or a good father more important that being a good businessman? I need to decide now, so I can spend my Ultimate Investment accordingly. Again, I need to make more lists and plans.
Finally, I want to be a good person. I want to be honest, have integrity, serve others, and feel good about who I am. What are the characteristics a good person should have? I need to write them down, so I know to make the Ultimate Investment in these areas. Again, a little bit here and there, spread over a long time, makes a HUGE difference.
A good way to learn is watching people I might want emulate. Example is a great teacher. I’ll learn from them. In time, others can learn from me. Especially my kids! They’ll benefit most. I can’t think of a better legacy than to have my children think I was a good man!
Part 3: Summary
To put it all together, the key is not to worry about it all at once. I have the Ultimate Investment on my side.
Investing a bit at a time, day by day, has created more successful people than all of the “˜sudden sensations’ I could ever name. There will be ups and downs, but I’ll remain constant in my “Ultimate Investment.”
Over time, I’ll be doing what I want to do, and I’ll be who I want to be.
And after all is said and done, isn’t that what life is all about?
*****
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