A priest was being honored at his retirement dinner after 25
years in the parish.  A leading local politician and member of the
congregation was chosen to make the presentation and give a little
speech at the dinner.

   However, he was delayed, so the priest decided to say his own
few words while they waited: 'I got my first impression of the parish
from the first confession I heard here.  I thought I had been assigned
to a terrible place. The very first person who entered my confessional
told me he had stolen a television set and, when questioned by the
police, was able to lie his way out of it. He had stolen money from his
parents, embezzled from his employer, had an affair with his boss's
wife, taken illegal drugs, and gave VD to his sister.  I was appalled.

   But as the days went on I learned that my people were not all
like that and I had, indeed, come to a fine parish full of good and
loving people.'....

   Just as the priest finished his talk, the politician arrived
full of apologies at being late.  He immediately began to make the
presentation and  gave his talk:

   'I'll never forget the first day our parish priest arrived,'
said the politician. 'In fact, I had the honor of being the first person
to go to him for confession.'

   
   Moral:  Never,  Never,  Never Be Late