Apple

Which one Is more difficult to do? Having Self-control or doing what you think you would never do? 

First, let’s present some simple situations. You have 3 pesos in your pocket. You’re very hungry and you find a basket of apples being sold by a merchant. You can’t afford to buy it but an opportunity comes when the merchant goes off for a while to get something from the back of her store. No one is watching, you can’t afford it… but you can take it for free. 

On the other hand, with the same situation, the merchant leaves for a while to get something from the back of her store. You’re standing near the basket with no one watching. You’re thinking, if I take this, no one will ever know and no harm done. But if I take it, my conscience will hunt me, I also harm the merchant from stealing from her. So then, you decided not to take anything. This case you have self-control.

Therefore, which one is more difficult: Having self-control or doing what your heart’s desire thinking only of your own gain? Same goes with any situation. Given opportunity to do two things… having a clear conscience or a colloid conscience harming others and in the long run, yourself. Which one is more important: Your fleshly desires or a clear conscience? 

Finally, the merchant comes back sees you looking at the apples. Then she gives you one, knowing that you didn’t take anything even if there was an opportunity. She smiles at you and thanked you. This case, you satisfied your hunger and you still have a clear conscience. You also gained a friend. 

Lesson: Self-control, there is no law against it. In the long run, you gain more. And you win!