Small Story 149.

Small Story 149. Six Years of Friendship and Blessings Krishnan, a retired man, visited the park at 5 P.M. to meet his two long-time friends, Mani and Ramu, for their daily walk and post-walk discussions. It was part of their routine for the past five years. Krishnan, Mani, and Ramu, all of the same age, shared a unique coincidence: each had a son, and they had been good friends since retirement. When Krishnan arrived, Mani greeted him, saying that Ramu wouldn't be joining them today. "He met me in the morning and told me," Mani explained. Mani and Ramu lived in the same apartment complex, while Krishnan lived in an independent house nearby. Mani handed Krishnan a small pocket and explained, "A relative of mine, traveling to Udupi via Bengaluru, met me and gave this Halwa and Banana chips." Krishnan thanked him and asked about the origin of the snacks. Mani shared that the Halwa was from Tirunelveli, and the Banana chips came from Coimbatore, both items made with love and care—Halwa from Tirunelveli and the Banana chips fried in coconut oil from Coimbatore. "I like both these treats, as does my wife Malavika and my son Ashwin," Krishnan added. After an hour of walking and chatting, they parted ways. Krishnan reached home, and Malavika noticed the pocket. "Who gave this, dear?" she asked. Krishnan told her it was from Mani, explaining where it came from. Later that evening, as they were watching TV, Ramu called Krishnan with some exciting news. "Krishnan, I have good news! My son Aravind has been selected as the Regional Manager for a leading pharmaceutical company in Ahmedabad. He's moving up from District Manager with great emoluments! I wanted to share this joy with you and bring your favorite Halwa," Ramu said. Krishnan responded with gratitude, "Thank you, Ramu. There's no need to rush with the Halwa. Mani already gave me some today, and I shared our evening meeting." After the call, Malavika remarked on the depth of Krishnan's friendships. "You have two good friends who are like-minded, and your food habits align too." Krishnan smiled. "Yes, dear, I am blessed to have these two friends ever since I retired. Friendship doesn’t always require decades—it could take just a few years or even hours to find a true friend. I don’t expect anything from them, and neither do they from me. This is a blessing I cherish every day in front of our deity." Later that evening, Ashwin, Krishnan's son, returned home with exciting news. "Hi, Dad! My company is sending me to Germany for three months for training," he announced. "I also brought your Halwa," he added, handing Krishnan the treat. Malavika nodded, smiling. "I was just telling your father how he never expects anything and how you brought such good news. By the way, Ramu Uncle's son got a great job too!" The next day, Krishnan met with Mani and Ramu in the park once again. Mani brought a pocket with Mysore Pak for both of them. "My son Vinay got a promotion at his office," Mani shared. "By the way, Krishnan, it’s been six years since we started our friendship, and we never ask for anything from each other. We are blessed with happiness." Krishnan nodded in agreement. "Yes, we are indeed God's blessed children at this age." After their walk, they parted ways, each grateful for the friendship that had enriched their lives over the years. K.Ragavan. 7-2-25