Look to the stars

AMALA EMMANUEL

Two prisoners looked out of prison bars. One looked up and saw the stars, the other looked down and saw the mud.

When they were released Ravi, who saw the stars, had visions of coming up in life. He had nowhere to go and no one to help him. Every time he stopped at a neighbourhood, people would stare and he felt forced to walk on. He was tired and hungry but the urge to start again and rise was great. He knew that he would not be accepted in any community for a long time; especially when on his forehead was permanently branded "ST" reminding every one that he was a "Sheep Thief".

After a long walk, tired and exhausted, Ravi sat under a mango0 tree. A parrot pecked at a ripe mango which fell in front of him. He picked it up, believing it was a sign and ate it. He then walked on. He reached a green valley and decided to rest. The mango seed was now his only possession. He planted it and decided to settle there.

Days later the seed sprouted, Ravi tended the seedling and it began to thrive. He cleared the area of the weeds and collected the seeds and seedlings of flowers and fruit trees and planted them. The stream that ran nearby made the air and the ground cool and refreshing. Soon the produce of his garden was ready to be harvested. Women and children from nearby, came to him for fresh flowers and fruits, greens and vegetables. Everyone found him courteous, pleasant, cheerful and honest. Ravi was not lonely any more. He made many friends and his garden became popular.

Years rolled on and a new generation came up. There were now shady trees, flowering trees and fruit trees as well as vegetable garden. Ravi allowed the children to come and play in his garden and pick what they wanted.

They loved him and respected him. Nobody knew what the letters "ST" on his forehead meant anymore and they decided that it could only mean "Saint" as he was so kind and honest.

What became of Raghu? On his release, he too walked on but had no aspirations. He could foresee nothing but gloom and doom and perhaps, that is what happened to him. Poor Raghu. If only he had realised that life should not be allowed to slip through his fingers by living in the past. Nothing is really over until the moment we stop trying.

Doesn't it take rain to make a rainbow or squeezed lemons to make lemonade? Sometimes it takes difficulties and hardships to make us better and stronger people. Even when the situation and problem seems hopeless, you can transform the situation into a worthwhile accomplishment making life a joyful adventure.

Every one has a wonderful life, waiting to be lived, to rise with the sun and follow a dream. When life seems to be dark and cloudy, it is bound to get better soon, if we create a positive atmosphere aiming at the stars.

Send this article to Friends by E-Mail

Section  : Features
Previous : Jack Tar, the sailor man
Next     : Holiday in India: Quiz Prize-Winners