Small Story 424.

Small Story 424 The Library Encounter – A Life-Changing Miracle Vyas entered the library with a purpose. Having recently completed his degree in Visual Communication and Advertising, he was eager to venture into the world of advertisement films and make a name for himself, much like the late stalwart Piyush Pandey. He approached the man in charge of the book section and asked, “Do you have any new books on advertisements or creativity?” The man replied, “Not at the moment, but I’ll keep an eye out. Leave me your number, and I’ll inform you if something comes in.” Vyas thanked him and was about to leave when a gentle voice called out, “Hello! You’re interested in advertising and creativity, right?” Turning around, Vyas saw a gracious woman, around her mid-forties, with an elegant, executive demeanor. “I’m Sophia,” she said with a smile. “I work with a well-known advertising and event management company in Australia. Would you like to join me for a cup of tea and talk more?” They walked to a nearby restaurant and sat down. Sophia continued, “I arrived in India two days ago for some work and came to this library to find a few good books. When I heard you talking, I thought I should introduce myself.” “Thank you, ma’am,” Vyas replied. “I’ve just completed my Visual Communication course after my B.A. I’m deeply interested in advertising and communication.” “That’s wonderful,” Sophia said warmly. “I’m the Marketing Coordinator for our company, and we’re always looking for creative minds like yours. If you’d like, leave me your bio-data, and I’ll stay in touch.” “Sure, I’d be honored,” Vyas replied enthusiastically. “My parents are very supportive of my dream to enter this field.” Just then, Sophia received a call from her Managing Director in Sydney. She mentioned Vyas during the conversation, and the MD immediately asked her to have him send his bio-data. Excited, Sophia relayed the message to Vyas, who sent his details right away. After chatting for a while, Vyas invited Sophia to his home to meet his parents before she left India. Since she was flying back in two days, she agreed. The next evening, at 5 PM, Sophia arrived at Vyas’s apartment in Banashankari. She was impressed by its tasteful décor. Vyas introduced his father, Vijay, who welcomed her warmly. “I retired from Bayer Company a few months ago,” Vijay said. “My last assignment was in Germany.” Sophia’s eyes lit up. “Really? My father also retired from Bayer after his last project in Germany. He lives with me now in Sydney.” Vijay smiled. “Was his name James?” Sophia was astonished. “Yes! How did you know?” Vijay brought out a photograph taken at his farewell party in Germany — and there was James, standing right beside him. The coincidence delighted everyone. After enjoying a delicious dinner prepared by Vyas’s mother, Smitha, Sophia left with fond memories. Exactly two months later, Vyas landed at Sydney Airport, where Sophia and her husband, David, greeted him warmly. He was to begin work at their advertising company the very next day. What began as a simple visit to a library had turned into a miraculous encounter that changed Vyas’s life forever — setting him firmly on the path to realizing his dream of becoming the next great name in advertising, just like Piyush Pandey. K.Ragavan 9-11-25