Pranaam yatri,
Life is so unpredictable na?
You have rain in November, and a ‘B’ team is making a fool out of world champions on the pitch.
Fate is very fickle, indeed.
Today’s story is about such a man.
Once upon a time in a quaint village nestled between rolling hills and lush greenery, there lived a humble farmer named Bhim. Bhim toiled day in and day out, cultivating his small plot of land, hoping for a bountiful harvest that would bring prosperity to his family.
One fateful day, news spread like wildfire that a defeated king, weakened and weary, had sought refuge in the outskirts of the village. The once-mighty ruler was now destitute, having lost everything in a fierce battle. Despite the king’s defeat, Bhim, known for his kind heart, decided to extend a helping hand.
Bhim approached the wounded king with food and medicine, offering him rest and safety in the midst of his despair. Touched by this generosity, the king promised to repay Bhim for his kindness once he regained his throne.
Years passed, and the king managed to rebuild his kingdom.
But on this side, Bhim’s situation worsened. Two failed monsoons wiped away all that he had. His children were crying from hunger. Although he didn’t want to spread his hands to ask for charity, he went to the king to collect the gift that was promised.
When Bhim arrived, the king instantly recognized his well-wisher. He welcomed Bhim, offering him food and drink. But since neither would help his children, Bhim joined his hands, “Kind king, I’ve come to seek help. Not just for myself, but my hungry children. You’d once promised me something in exchange of my assistance.”
The king thought for a moment. He then directed the minister to present Bhim with a goat. Bhim was offended by this meager gift. He expected more from a king. Disappointed and angered by the king’s selfishness, Bhim reluctantly accepted the goat.
But a few days later, it died. Undeterred, he went to the king again. This time, the king gifted him a horse. Yet again, Bhim hopes were crushed when the horse perished within months.
“Can he not give me some money?” he thought.
Growing increasingly resentful, Bhim went to the palace for the third time.
This time, the king surprised him with a cow and a strong bull. Skeptical but grateful, Bhim accepted the gift. To his amazement, the cow and bull thrived, becoming valuable assets to his farm, providing milk, labor, and sustenance.
A year later, the king summoned him.
This time, he bestowed upon him 100,000 gold coins and a vast piece of fertile land. Bewildered, Bhim couldn’t help but question the king’s motives.
“Why didn’t you grant me such wealth from the beginning?” he asked, his frustration evident.
The king, wise and patient, responded, “Bhim, when you first helped me, destiny had not yet favored you. I needed to test if your fortunes were changing. The goat and horse were sacrifices to the unpredictable whims of fate. Once it became clear that your luck had turned, I gave you the cow and bull, confident that they would thrive and benefit you. Now, with certainty in your prosperity, I gift you wealth and land that will endure.”
It’s true: irrespective of how much we get, it doesn’t stay if our luck doesn’t permit it.
So the next time you’re getting little, be thankful to the universe. It’s perhaps saving a better, larger gift for later.
