The Watch: The Heirloom

“Arthur, this gift I am about to give you as a graduation present originally belonged to your great-grandfather,” said Myrna, who was proud of her oldest grandson and his recent academic achievements. “It is a family heirloom to be passed along from generation to generation.”

Arthur had just returned home with his new wife, having completed a doctorate in family medicine. Myrna handed him the watch in its original box, after the family dinner where they had all gathered to celebrate his recent graduation.

“Wonderful!” exclaimed Arthur. “Thank you, Grandma!”

The entire family applauded, as Arthur took the watch out of the box and put it on his wrist.

“It looks brand new,” said Arthur, with amazement. “And it still runs too!”  

“I know you will take good care of your great-grandfather’s watch. I wish he could have been here to present it to you today.”

“It is engraved with his initials, exactly the same as mine,” said Arthur, examining it carefully. “It is gold and must be worth a lot of money.”

“Gold has a high dollar value, but it is a family heirloom, Arthur. Passing this watch along in the family is more important than any amount of money it would be worth if you sold it.”

“I will never sell it, Grandma,” promised Arthur. “Thank you! Thank you everyone for your patience and kindness, as well as helping me to graduate.”

Arthur kissed his grandmother on the cheek and hugged her.

“You are such a wonderful, gracious lady!”

“When your great-grandfather retired from his family practice, he was presented with this watch by the other doctors in the community. They had a lot of respect for him.”

“That means so much to me, “replied Arthur, with a smile. “Now folks, my new wife, who most of you have just met, and I, have a surprise for you too. We are going to have a baby, a son. We have decided to name him after my great-grandfather.”

“This is a double celebration!” said Myrna to herself, breathing a sigh of relief. “The watch is an heirloom that will be passed on in the family to the next generation. Thank you, God."