Small Story 486.

Small Story 486: The Importance of Balance Gopalrao arrived at Dubai International Airport to change flights on his way to Boston. His connecting flight was scheduled to depart after three hours. While waiting in the lounge, he noticed an elderly couple from the United States sitting next to him. Gopalrao’s wife had left for Boston ten days earlier. Due to his work commitments, Gopalrao was traveling now to attend his grandson’s convocation. The gentleman beside him smiled and said, “Hello, I’m Davidson, and this is my wife, Helen. We’re going to Boston.” Gopalrao introduced himself and said that he too was headed to Boston. Davidson, in his seventies, continued thoughtfully, “Before meeting you, my wife and I were talking about the advice my father gave me when I was young. Once, he collapsed due to giddiness and vertigo. The doctor advised him to always carry his medicine. Later, my father told me that in life I must be very careful about my food habits, stress, and overall health. He also advised me to maintain balance—not only on my legs but also in my bank balance—for my retirement.” Smiling, Davidson added, “By God’s grace, I followed both.” Gopalrao was deeply impressed by the foreign national’s awareness of health, discipline, and financial planning. When Gopalrao later settled into his business-class seat and noticed Davidson and his wife nearby, he softly whispered to himself: “Balance is truly very important in life.” K.Ragavan 10-1-26