Sharing is Caring

Yesterday, my maid arrived half an hour late. Concerned, I inquired, "Why did you come late? Is your health alright?"

With a sombre expression, she replied, "No, my health is not good. I am unwell. I had a severe headache." She proceeded to recount her recent visit to the doctor for an MRI, who advised her to commence medication before determining the need for an MRI.

Curiously, the prescribed medicines were notably potent, and in the scorching weather, they only exacerbated her discomfort. With empathy, I recommended that she should consume some fresh fruits to alleviate the heat. 

Her response unveiled a financial predicament that burdened her and her husband. They had already invested 15,000 rupees in a cooler to endure the sweltering temperatures, and they had the additional responsibility of purchasing a scooty. Education fees for their two children further depleted their limited funds. Her husband's earnings amounted to a mere 10,000 rupees, while she contributed 12,000 rupees to their modest income. After paying the rent and electricity bills, little remained to allocate towards the purchase of fruits and juice.

Deep in thought, I contemplated the words of wisdom recently shared by my Guru Om Swamiji, advocating the recognition of divinity within every soul. He wrote, “You continue to see the divinity in everything around you, the same divinity you saw in your guru.” In that moment, I pondered how I could extend a helping hand to soothe her. I wondered what actions for Swamiji I would have taken if He was present. Guided by an innate desire to assist, I walked towards my refrigerator and took out two ripe mangoes. They were the symbols of nature's abundance and were destined to bring a touch of sweetness to her life. Approaching her with a warm smile, I handed her the fruits, silently hoping that this small gesture would provide solace in her difficult times. I was happy to be able to help her, and I felt good, knowing that I had followed the teachings of my guru Om Swamiji.

I believe that everyone has the potential to be kind, helpful and generous. We should all try to see the divinity in others, and we should always be willing to share with others. The act of kindness extended to the maid as a reminder that even the simplest acts can transform lives and can build a sense of unity in the world.