Break Quote by Art Linkletter
“A poor old man held the winning ticket on a half million dollar lottery. Hearing the old man might be surprised at the shock, the local pastor was asked to break the news gradually. The pastor made a customary call, and while visiting casually asked the old man what he would do with a half million dollars if he had it. The old man replied, "why, I'd give half of it to you." Whereupon the pastor dropped dead.”
About This Quote
Source Story: Urban Legend, unknown source
A generous offer can mask hidden danger, leading to unexpected tragedy.
In simple terms: Kindness may hide peril.
Key Takeaway
Beware of unintended consequences.
Themes
generosity
trust
deception
mortality
risk
Mood
cautionary
reflective
Type
folklore
anecdotal
When to use this quote
- charitable acts
- financial advice
- community leadership
Key Concepts
moral dilemmas
human behavior
unexpected outcomes
Questions to Reflect On
- What safeguards can protect against hidden threats?
- When should generosity be tempered?
A Different Perspective
Assuming goodwill without caution can be fatal.
![“[People asked me] "Where is your million-dollar shirt?" I'm like, "It's underneath these $25 Hanes T-shirts I've got on."” quote by J. R. Smith](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/e0a/j-r-smith-11490_dollars_people-asked-me-where-is-your-million-do_164434.jpg)
