Dishes

The discovery of a new dish does more for human happiness than the discovery of a new star.

~ Anthelme Brillat-Savarin

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Grandmother brought three silver dishes out to the table.  She said, "In one dish is the key to happiness.  In one dish is the key to wisdom.  In the third dish is the key to wealth.  You may only eat from one dish.  Choose wisely."

Becky uncovered the first dish.  It was filled with green bean casserole.  "Surely this is the dish of happiness, Grandmother!" she shrieked.  "For it is my favorite food of all!!"

Grandmother smiled.  "Perhaps, Becky.  Let's move on."

Leonard opened the second dish.  He beamed.  "This must surely be the dish of wisdom, Grandmother.  For you have prepared owl-au-gratin!"

Grandmother smiled.  "Perhaps, Leonard.  There is one more."

Little AJ opened the third dish.  It was empty.  He was confused.  "I don't understand, Grandmother.  It cannot be happiness because I have nothing to eat.  It cannot be wisdom, for there is no knowledge within.  It cannot be wealth because it is empty."

Grandmother threw back her head and laughed and laughed and laughed.  "I just made up that story, children.  The third dish was supposed to be boiled potatoes, but the dog got into them." 

"Oh, and Leonard," she said seriously, "That's not 'owl-au-gratin.'  What the hell is wrong with you?!  It's goulash."