Small Story 159.

Small Story 159 :"A Marriage Encounter Ramesh was eagerly waiting for a message from his friend Suresh to confirm their planned tour to Theni, Kumuli, and Periyakulam during the upcoming two-day weekly holiday. Ramesh and Suresh had been good friends for three years, working together in the same Cooperative Bank. Suresh's wife, Nandhini, and Ramesh's wife, Chandini, were also close friends. The couples had been happily married for two years and lived in the peaceful town of Dindigul, which was surrounded by picturesque villages and beautiful places to visit. Both friends’ parents lived in Chennai and often visited them. One day, Suresh called Ramesh and apologized, saying, “Sorry Ramesh, my parents are coming tomorrow for our relative’s marriage in Vedasendur.” Ramesh replied, “No problem, I’ll postpone the trip to another holiday.” Later that evening, Ramesh and Suresh met for their usual walk near St. Joseph Hospital. Ramesh smiled and said, “At least I’ll get to meet your parents.” Suresh nodded, replying, “Yes, I’m inviting you for tea on Sunday. My parents will attend the marriage on Friday, and on Saturday they’ll visit Palani for darshan. On Sunday evening, we’ll meet at my house.” The weekend came, and Ramesh and his family enjoyed a lovely evening with Suresh’s parents. Suresh’s wife had prepared delicious snacks, sweets, and marriage treats, making it a sweet and memorable evening. After spending an hour together, they all parted ways. The next day, Suresh called Ramesh with exciting news. “I just received a message from sMultinational Bank. They’ve selected me as a Probationary Officer at their head office in Bengaluru I had applied a year ago, and my parents were praying to our family deity. Yesterday, they visited the temple for darshan, and today, I got the message!” Ramesh was overjoyed. “That’s wonderful news! Though I’ll miss you, I know your career is important,” he said, feeling happy for his friend. Suresh's parents had great faith in their family deity, and their prayers had been answered. After spending a few more days in Dindigul, Suresh’s parents left to return to Chennai, leaving the town with happy hearts. They had come for one purpose, but fate had led them to another blessing. Ramesh whispered to Suresh, “Nothing is in our hands, my friend.” The following day, Suresh’s parents departed for Chennai. K.Ragavan 17-2-25