The document tells a story about a boy who has a difficult character and gets angry easily. His father gives him nails and tells him to hammer one into the fence every time he loses his temper. Over time, as the boy learns to control himself, he hammers fewer nails each day. Eventually he is able to control himself completely and removes all the nails from the fence. His father tells him that while the nails are gone, the holes they left remain, just as hurtful words can leave wounds even if you apologize. The rest of the document provides advice and superstitions about friendship, love, and life.