Small Story 94.Stalwart's Blessing

Small Story 94.Stalwart's Blessing Sundaresan had joined the private audit firm just two days ago. He took the 8:45 AM electric train from Tambaram to Fort Station, arriving at his office on Nyiappanaicken Street by 10:00 AM. The office was well-maintained, air-conditioned, and furnished with good-quality furniture, creating a pleasant work environment. Madhavan, the owner of the firm, had retired from Singapore and started this firm three years ago. In that short span, he had built a strong clientele and established a reputation among some of the most reputed firms. His credentials and overseas experience spoke volumes, and his success was undeniable. One day, as Sundaresan was busy at work, the peon came to him with a message: "Sir, the boss wants to see you." Sundaresan entered Madhavan's chamber. At 73 years of age, Madhavan was smart, handsome, and full of energy. "Sit down," Madhavan said, gesturing to the sofa across from him. Sundaresan sat down, and Madhavan continued, "I’ve seen your credentials, and I’m happy that you’ve chosen my firm. May I know why you selected us?" Sundaresan replied, "Sir, I have an M.Com with a gold medal. I’ve studied your background, and I admire your standing in the industry, both here and abroad. Your firm in Singapore ran successfully for thirty-five years, and many of your former employees are now well-settled in various places." Madhavan smiled. "You know about me, and I’m truly thrilled. Now, tell me about your background and your family." Sundaresan replied, "I have my parents. My dad is a cook, working at marriages and other functions, and my mother is a housewife. My dad always wanted me to study and become a great accountant. He had a reason for this—his former boss once ill-treated him when he asked about his accounts. This incident made my dad determined that I should become a professional accountant." Madhavan was intrigued. "What is your dad’s name?" "Ramanathan," Sundaresan answered. "And where are you from?" Madhavan asked. "Kumbakonam," replied Sundaresan. Madhavan smiled warmly. "You will come up in my firm in the future." As Sundaresan stood up to leave, Madhavan added, "I’ll tell you something. My dad was also a cook from Shencottah. That’s why I believe you’ll be a successful professional accountant in the future." Tears welled up in Sundaresan’s eyes, touched by the blessing of the experienced and proven stalwart. It was a moment he would never forget—a blessing he knew would not go to waste. K.Ragavan 1-12-24