Small Story 664.

 Small Story 664

Life Is Beautiful – 9

A few days earlier, the little boy had shared that his father had died in an accident. Unable to bear the shock, his mother had lost her memory and was receiving treatment at a government hospital.

His school fees had to be paid by the next day. Hoping to seek help, he was on his way to meet one of his late father's friends. Lost in his worries, he tried to cross the highway without noticing the oncoming traffic.

Ram: "Fortunately, nothing happened to you. Come, let's sit down and talk for a while."

With those words, Ram took the boy to a nearby restaurant and ordered two cups of tea.

Ram: "What is your name? Which grade are you studying in?"

Boy: "My name is Prasanna. I am studying in the ninth grade."

Ram: "First, have your tea. From now on, always be very careful when crossing the road. Don't let your father's death and your mother's condition discourage you. You must study hard, succeed in life, and take good care of your mother. Will you promise me that?"

Prasanna: "Certainly, sir."

Ram: "I will take care of your school fees and, later, your college education expenses as well."

Hearing those words, Prasanna's eyes filled with tears.

Prasanna: "Sir, this is the first time you've ever met me, yet you're willing to trust me and help me. You truly are a wonderful person."

Ram: "Please don't call me a great man. The moment I saw your face and the burden of worry you were carrying at such a young age, I understood your situation. I'm a teacher. Over the years, I've learned to understand a person's state of mind and character to some extent.

For now, here's ₹500 to pay your school fees tomorrow. Whenever you need financial help in the future, don't hesitate to contact me. Here is my visiting card."

Ram smiled warmly.

Ram: "All right, we'll meet again. Take care."

(To be continued...)

— K. Ragavan

7-7-26