The Gift of Time: A Story About Overcoming Laziness
Discover how a father's special gift helps his son transform from being always late to becoming organized and successful.
About This Story
This inspiring story follows Alex's journey from being a perpetually late and disorganized student to becoming a responsible and successful college student, all thanks to his father's thoughtful gift and wisdom.
Perfect for English learners, this story uses clear language and includes a vocabulary list to help you improve your English while learning about personal growth and time management.
STORY FEATURES
- Personal growth
- Time management
- Useful vocabulary
- Family values
Alex was known throughout his neighborhood for two things: his cheerful personality and his complete disregard for time. He was always late—for school, for meals, for football practice, even for his own birthday party the previous year. His father, Mr. Anderson, had tried countless times to advise him about the importance of punctuality and organization, but Alex never took it seriously.
"Time waits for no one, Alex," his father would say, glancing at his own reliable silver wristwatch. "Being late doesn't just affect you; it affects everyone around you." Alex would shrug, offering his charming smile. "I'm only a few minutes late, Dad. Nobody minds." But people did mind. His teachers grew frustrated when he disrupted class. His friends stopped inviting him to group outings because he would arrive after the movie started or the game was already underway. Even his football coach had benched him twice for missing warm-ups.
Despite his habitual lateness, Alex had a good heart. He was playful, creative, and always ready to help a friend in need. But his lack of discipline cast a shadow over his positive qualities. As he finished high school, his parents worried about how he would manage on his own, especially when they received news that he had been accepted into a college three hours away from home.
The summer before college passed in a whirlwind of shopping, packing, and goodbyes. Alex was excited about the freedom and new experiences that awaited him, but his parents were filled with quiet anxiety. The night before his departure, his father came to his room with a small, beautifully wrapped box. "This is for you, Alex," Mr. Anderson said, his voice gentle but serious. "But I want you to promise me something." "What is it, Dad?" Alex asked, his curiosity piqued. "Don't open this now. Keep it with you. When you find yourself struggling in college—when you feel alone, overwhelmed, or lost—that's when you should open it. It might help you remember that we're always with you."
Alex was puzzled but agreed. He packed the box at the bottom of his suitcase, wondering what inside could be so important. The first month of college was both exciting and challenging. Alex enjoyed his new independence, making friends in his dorm, and exploring the campus. But soon, his old habits began to cause problems. He missed early morning lectures because he overslept. He turned in assignments late, losing valuable marks. His room was constantly messy, and he often couldn't find his keys, books, or wallet.
One rainy October evening, everything came to a head. Alex had an important midterm exam the next morning. He had planned to study all day, but instead, he spent the afternoon playing video games with his roommate. When he finally sat down to study that night, he realized he had lost his notes. Frantically searching through piles of clothes and papers, he grew more and more stressed. He felt overwhelmed, lonely, and completely unprepared for the exam. For the first time, he truly missed his family—his mother's encouraging words, his father's practical advice.
Sitting on the edge of his bed, head in his hands, he remembered the gift from his father. He rummaged through his suitcase and pulled out the box. Carefully unwrapping it, he found his father's old silver wristwatch—the very one his dad had worn every day for as long as Alex could remember. Tucked under the watch was a handwritten note.
"My dearest Alex, If you are reading this, it means you are facing a challenge and remembering home. I'm giving you my watch not just to tell time, but to remind you that every moment is precious. When you wear it, imagine that I am right there with you, guiding you. Use your time wisely, son. It is the one resource you can never get back. Be on time, be organized, and be present. We believe in you. With all our love, Dad"
Tears welled in Alex's eyes as he read the note. He could almost hear his father's voice. He fastened the watch around his wrist, feeling its weight—a comforting, steady presence. That night, he cleaned his room, found his notes, and studied until he felt confident. The next morning, he woke up early, arrived at the exam hall with time to spare, and performed better than he expected.
From that day on, Alex began to change. The watch became a symbol of his father's love and wisdom. Every time he glanced at it, he remembered his promise to be better. He started using a planner to organize his assignments and set alarms for his classes and activities. He made a habit of preparing for the next day each night—laying out his clothes, packing his bag, and reviewing his schedule.
His college life transformed. His grades improved significantly. His professors noticed his newfound diligence, and his friends appreciated his reliability. He even started a study group where he helped others manage their time effectively. The watch not only helped him become punctual but also taught him the value of discipline and responsibility.
During his winter break, Alex returned home. His family was amazed by the change in him. He was more focused, organized, and mature. On his first morning back, he joined his father for breakfast—right on time. Mr. Anderson noticed the watch on Alex's wrist and smiled. "I see you opened my gift." "Yes, Dad," Alex replied, his voice filled with gratitude. "It saved me. Thank you." His father's eyes twinkled with pride. "I didn't give you the watch to change you, Alex. I gave it to you to remind you of the strength you already had inside."
Alex learned that the gift was not just a timepiece but a token of faith—a constant reminder that even when apart, his family's love and guidance were always with him. He continued to wear the watch throughout college and beyond, carrying the lessons of time, responsibility, and love wherever he went.
Lesson from the Story
Time is our most precious resource, and how we use it defines our life. With discipline, organization, and the love of our family, we can overcome our weaknesses and achieve our full potential. Sometimes, the greatest gifts are those that remind us of the strength we already possess.
Vocabulary List for English Learners
Here are some useful words from the story to help you learn:
1. Punctuality (noun)
The habit of being on time.
Example: Alex improved his punctuality by always wearing his watch.
2. Disregard (noun)
Lack of attention or care.
Example: His disregard for time caused many problems.
3. Reliable (adjective)
Trustworthy and consistent.
Example: The silver wristwatch was a reliable gift.
4. Diligence (noun)
Careful and persistent effort.
Example: With diligence, Alex improved his grades and habits.
5. Responsibility (noun)
The state of having a duty to deal with something.
Example: The watch taught Alex about responsibility and time management.
6. Overwhelmed (adjective)
Feeling unable to cope with too many demands.
Example: Alex felt overwhelmed before opening his father's gift.
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