Government’s job
By Lokanath Mishra
Lilabati’s story is a poignant reminder of the importance of balance in life. As a stenographer in a central government department, she dedicated herself to her work, often sacrificing her personal life and health in the process. Her mantra, “Work is Life. Department is Sacred. Boss is God,” drove her to excel in her job, but at a great cost.
Despite her dedication, Lilabati’s family suffered, and her children and husband missed her dearly. Her relentless pursuit of perfection and her willingness to stay late at work and skip meals took a toll on her health. Tragically, she died of a stroke, leaving behind a grieving family.
The story takes a poignant turn when Lilabati’s son, who received a compensatory appointment as a junior clerk, follows in his mother’s footsteps. However, he takes a different approach to life, becoming a rough-around-the-edges individual who struggles to fit in at the office. His untimely death in a road accident leaves his wife to pick up the pieces.
Lilabati’s daughter-in-law, who receives a compassionate appointment as a junior clerk, learns from the experiences of her mother-in-law and husband. She adopts a different philosophy, prioritizing her work-life balance and setting boundaries. She leaves work at 6:00 sharp, spends weekends with her family, and pursues her hobbies.
As she navigates her career, she faces skepticism from her colleagues, but her approach proves to be successful. She isn’t fired, and instead, she gets promoted and receives the same pay as her colleagues. Over time, her approach becomes the norm, and others begin to follow suit.
The story highlights the importance of prioritizing one’s well-being and setting boundaries in the workplace. It shows that it’s possible to be dedicated to one’s job without sacrificing one’s personal life and health. Lilabati’s story serves as a cautionary tale, while her daughter-in-law’s approach offers a more balanced and sustainable path.
The story also touches on the theme of legacy and the impact that our choices can have on future generations. Lilabati’s daughter-in-law learns from her experiences and makes conscious choices to prioritize her well-being and family. By doing so, she creates a more balanced and fulfilling life, one that values work but also recognizes its limitations.
Ultimately, the story encourages readers to rethink their priorities and values, and to strive for a better balance in their lives. By doing so, we can create a more sustainable and fulfilling life, one that prioritizes our well-being and happiness.