A Promise Made
In 1936, Stanley Tam started a small plastics company with borrowed money. He made a promise: if God blessed his business, he would give it all back.
God Owns My Business
As the business grew, Tam kept his word. First 51%, then more. Eventually, he transferred 100% ownership to a foundation for missions. He became an employee of his own company.
"God owns my business," Tam explained. "I just work here."
The arrangement seemed foolish to business advisors. But the company kept growing. Over his lifetime, Tam gave over $140 million to world missions - more than the company was ever worth on paper.
The Secret of Happiness
At 93, Tam was still going to work every day, still giving away his salary. "God has made me the happiest person in the world," he said. "I have discovered the secret of happiness: Give it away."
Stanley Tam proved that radical generosity doesn't destroy business - it transforms the purpose of business into something eternal.