Once upon a time, there lived a man who had a daughter as beautiful as a blooming flower and as well-behaved as an angel. Her positive nature made her a beacon of joy and happiness to everyone around her.
As she grew older, her father arranged a marriage for her. The groom came from a prosperous family, had a prestigious job, and was highly educated. Her relatives and friends rejoiced, praising her fortune and the promising future that lay ahead.
Years passed, and the girl, now a woman, conceived a child. The news of her pregnancy brought immense joy to her family. However, as the months went by, her health began to falter. Day by day, she grew weaker, her vitality slipping away like sand through her fingers. Despite consulting the best doctors, her condition remained a mystery, and her health continued to decline.
One fateful day, during a visit to a holy temple, she encountered a Sadhu, a wise and compassionate sage. His eyes, filled with kindness, seemed to see through her suffering. "My child," he asked gently, "what troubles you so deeply? Speak your heart, and by the grace of Shri Ram, you shall find solace."
Unable to hold back her tears, the woman sobbed uncontrollably. "Maharaj," she cried, "my husband and in-laws have threatened to disown me if I bear a daughter instead of a son. This fear and anguish are eating away at my soul. I dread the day my child will enter this world, for it may bring my doom."
The Sadhu's eyes softened with understanding. "My dear child," he said with a soothing voice, "do not despair. Shri Ram is compassionate and just. He will bless you with a son, but remember, your husband and in-laws must face the consequences of their cruelty. After all, whether a daughter or a son, the child is a gift from the divine."
With renewed hope, the woman clung to the Sadhu's words. As the months passed, she held onto her faith, praying fervently. Finally, the day of her delivery arrived. With bated breath, her family awaited the news.
By the grace of Shri Ram, she gave birth to a healthy baby boy. Relief and satisfaction washed over her husband and in-laws, but the Sadhu's words echoed in her mind. She knew that while her immediate fears were assuaged, the deeper issues of their hearts remained unaddressed.
Learning: The tale of the woman's suffering and the Sadhu's wisdom teaches us that human selfishness can lead to unimaginable cruelty. However, divine justice prevails, and those who wrong others must face the repercussions of their actions. True peace and contentment come from selfless devotion and service to the divine. Only by controlling our instinctive nature can we find true fulfillment.
