The nun’s smile widened. Without a word, she reached into her robe and pulled out a small newspaper clipping, slightly worn, as if she had saved it for years. She handed it to St. Peter and pointed to the headline:
“Local Man Alberto Pipalini Named Happiest Person Alive.”
The article explained that Alberto was not wealthy or famous. He ran a small family business, greeted everyone by name, laughed easily, helped his neighbors without being asked, and never took life too seriously. He enjoyed simple meals, long conversations, and quiet evenings. People often wondered how he remained so content, and his answer was always the same: he appreciated what he had instead of chasing what he didn’t.Family
St. Peter read the article carefully, then burst into laughter—a deep, joyful sound that echoed through the gates of Heaven.
“You know,” he said, wiping his eyes, “after everything I’ve seen up here, that might be the smartest choice of all.”
With a wave of his hand, poof, the third nun vanished as well.
