Back in the days of the old west, there was once a young fellow who sought out the local preacher to plead his case for redemption. As we join the conversation, out subject is receiving a stern lecture from the parson:
"You shouldn't have stolen that chicken, son; it was sinful."
"I know it," replied the boy, "and I'm here because I'm after repenting." Lowering his head, he continued,
"Would you take the chicken from me?"
"Of course not," snapped the preacher. "It was stolen and you must return it to the rightful owner. It is not yours to give to me."
"But I did try," the boy went on, "but he refused to take it back."
"Well, if the owner refused your kind offer, keep it for yourself."
The fellow sighed deeply. "My conscience is now clear," said he.
Later that evening the parson went to feed his own chicken flock. One was missing ...
---------------A Final Thought ...
"I have never let my schooling interfere with my education."
- Mark Twain (1835-1910), U.S. author