Small Story 280.

Small Story 280 Respecting Choices in Marriage" After hearing her friend’s daughter’s wedding news, Subha wasn’t too surprised. Her friend Roshani shared that her daughter Anita was marrying her office colleague Naveen, who is from Odisha. Though Subha felt a bit unsettled at first, Roshani’s happiness was evident. “Their food habits are similar, and they make a good pair,” Roshani said with a smile. Later that evening, Subha shared the news with her husband Ram. He responded warmly, “If they like each other, that’s what matters. Once love is there, one will adjust for the other. That’s how life becomes easier.” Ram’s practical take brought some comfort to Subha. The following week, Ram, Subha, and their daughter Vasanthy attended Anita’s wedding. They were pleased to see the happy couple and enjoyed the delicious lunch, especially the wide variety of sweets. After the celebration, as they were heading home, Subha turned to her daughter and asked, “Vasanthy, tell me honestly, do you have any plans to marry someone from your office like Anita did?” Vasanthy smiled and replied, “I truly appreciate Anita’s decision. But my nature is different. I want to follow our traditions and marry as per your and Dad’s wishes. Many youngsters today are choosing partners on their own, and we should respect that. But it’s also okay for someone like me to choose a traditional path. Both ways are valid as long as the decision is sincere and lasting.” Shubha was delighted by her daughter’s openness and clarity. Ram added with a proud smile, “She is our daughter after all—following tradition, yet respecting others’ choices. What truly matters is how we see and support these decisions, not just the decisions themselves.” K.Ragavan 18-6-25