Small Story 131.A Friend's Blessing.

Small Story 131. "A Friend's Blessing"** Narain, a young man from Tenkasi, arrived at a grand bungalow in T. Nagar to meet Damodaran, a renowned writer. The security guard questioned him, asking if he had an appointment. Narain replied that he was his friend Desikan's son , and though he hadn't been directly invited, Desikan had sent him with a message. After a brief wait, Damodaran, who was in his 50s, came out to meet Narain. Despite his age, Damodaran looked remarkably handsome and smart. They exchanged pleasantries, and Narain shared that Desikan was not doing well. Desikan, Damodaran's well-wisher, had been diagnosed with throat cancer and had little hope from the doctors. Narain, who had studied only up to S.S.L.C., had always aspired to be a writer, a dream that had been nurtured despite their financial struggles. Narain explained that his father worked as a cook in a hotel Narain had received encouragement from Desikan to pursue his passion for writing, and with his limited education, he had won a couple of prizes for his stories in a popular magazine. However, his family’s financial difficulties had made it hard for him to continue his education or find a steady job. His father had recently stopped working due to illness, adding to the pressure on the family. Damodaran, deeply moved by the situation, recalled the time when he had left Tenkasi. Desikan had given him 500 rupees for his travel expenses to meet a director. The director, impressed by his talent, had helped him find success in the film industry. Damodaran’s success was partly due to Desikan’s generosity, and now he wanted to repay that kindness. He offered Narain a chance to work with him. Damodaran also decided to help Narain's father, offering to take him to a leading surgeon. Thanks to the miraculous treatment, Desikan was cured within three months. Desikan’s kindness had not only helped Damodaran but had now extended to Narain, who found himself on the path to becoming a great writer under Damodaran’s mentorship. Despite the tragedy that had struck Damodaran’s own life, losing his family in a fire, he continued to honor the memory of his dear friend Desikan. He took Narain under his wing, guiding him to success, just as Desikan had once helped him. The story of friendship, kindness, and mutual support became a beacon of hope, illustrating how one small act of generosity can change the course of a life forever. K.Ragavan 20-1-25