The Royal Act

09/05/2012
Fr. Jose Kaimlett

The Royal Act

The story narrated is that one day a beggar by the roadside asked for alms from Alexander the Great as he passed by.

The man was poor and wretched and had no claim upon the ruler, no right even to lift a solicitous hand. Yet the Emperor threw him several gold coins. A courtier was astonished at his generosity and commented, “Sir, copper coins would adequately meet a beggar’s need. Why give him gold?”

Alexander responded in royal fashion, “Copper coins would suit the beggar’s need, but gold coins suit Alexander’s giving.”

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The Capacity of the giver rather than the need of the receiver should decide the quantum of giving – as much as he can – no more no less.

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