A Life of Simplicity, Honesty, and Kindness:
By Lokanath Mishra:
Ramesh, a retired government servant, lived a life of unwavering honesty and simplicity. Throughout his career, he had remained committed to his values, earning the respect and admiration of those around him.
After retirement, Ramesh started a law firm with his son and daughter, both lawyers. Together, they worked tirelessly, and their firm flourished. However, Ramesh’s wife had other plans, insisting that their daughter get married immediately, followed by their son.
But fate had other plans. In 2023, Ramesh was diagnosed with mouth cancer. Despite the devastating news, he refused to give up. He underwent treatment and, to his relief, it was successful. The experience left an indelible mark on his life.
As Ramesh recovered, he felt an overwhelming urge to give back to the world. He started driving poor cancer patients to their appointments, arranging meetings with doctors, and even financing some of their treatments. He listened to their stories and struggles, offering a shoulder to lean on.
Ramesh’s selfless acts did not go unnoticed. While he was in the hospital, helping others, one person was impressed by his simplicity and dedication. This person proposed a marriage between Ramesh’s son and his daughter, a teacher. Ramesh’s brother-in-law, a software engineer, knew the family and recommended the marriage.
However, Ramesh’s wife wanted their daughter to get married first. Meanwhile, another proposal arrived for Ramesh’s daughter to marry a software engineer, whom Ramesh’s brother-in-law knew well and highly recommended.
Ramesh’s daughter’s engagement was fixed, and the family worried about potential dowry demands. Ramesh, who didn’t have much money, was visibly worried when the in-laws arrived. However, the boy’s father, Samadhi ji, surprised him with his kind and genuine nature.
When Samadhi ji discussed dowry, Ramesh’s heart sank. But Samadhi ji’s words were a breath of fresh air: “I don’t want a single rupee as dowry. I want a daughter-in-law who will bring prosperity and happiness to our family.”
Ramesh was taken aback by Samadhi ji’s wisdom. He hugged him, grateful for his understanding and kindness. Samadhi ji’s words echoed in Ramesh’s mind: “I want Lakshmi in life, not Lakshmi with materials.”
The message was clear: true prosperity and happiness come not from material wealth but from the values and principles we live by. Ramesh’s life was a testament to this truth. His simplicity, honesty, and kindness had earned him respect and admiration.
As we reflect on Ramesh’s story, we are reminded of the importance of living a life of values and principles. In a world dominated by materialism and greed, Ramesh’s story serves as a beacon of hope, inspiring us to reevaluate our priorities and strive for a life of simplicity, honesty, and kindness.