The Richest Man In The Valley

Story The Richest Man In The Valley A rich landowner named Carl often rode around his vast estate so he couldcongratulate himself on his great wealth. One day while riding around his estate on his favorite horse, he saw Hans,an old tenant farmer. Hans was sitting under a tree when Carl rode by.Hans said, 'I was just thanking God for my food.'Carl protested, 'If that is all I had to eat, I wouldn't feel like givingthanks.'Hans replied, 'God has given me everything I need, and I am thankful forit.'The old farmer added, 'It is strange you should come by today because I hada dream last night. In my dream a voice told me, 'The richest man in thevalley will die tonight.' I don't know what it means, but I thought I oughtto tell you.'Carl snorted, 'Dreams are nonsense,' and galloped away, but he could notforget Hans' words: 'The richest man in the valley will die tonight.'He was obviously the richest man in the valley, so he invited his doctor tohis house that evening. Carl told the doctor what Hans had said. After a thorough examination, thedoctor told the wealthy landowner, 'Carl, you are as strong and healthy as ahorse. There is no way you are going to die tonight.' Nevertheless, for assurance, the doctor stayed with Carl, and they playedcards through the night.The doctor left the next morning and Carl apologized for becoming so upsetover the old man's dream.At about nine o'clock, a messenger arrived at Carl's door.'What is it?' Carl demanded.The messenger explained, 'It's about old Hans. He died last night in hissleep. Being rich has nothing to do with money or possessions. But it haseverything to do with having a relationship with God.