Small Story 189.

Small Story 189 The Strength of Will Power A Reunion of Faith After a few years, Bashyam visited Chennai and went to his favorite Nanganallur area to see his old friend Hanumantharao, as well as the great Anjaneya temple. Hanumantharao warmly welcomed his old buddy with love and affection. Both reminisced about their fast-paced office days working together in the IB. After a sumptuous dinner, Bashyam thanked him, and his wife Lakshmi mentioned that he was looking for their son Raveender. Hanumantharao, in a slow voice, said, "During the COVID period, I lost him." Bashyam could not believe it, since Raveender was a handsome boy with a good academic background. It had hardly been four years, yet Hanumantharao was calm and following his routine. This made Bashyam think about his friend's incredible willpower, and he nodded, "You are great, Hanumantharao." Hanumantharao replied, "I am not great. This area, Hanumantha, is great. Millions of people have visited over the years. He has given me the strength to withstand everything, and we human beings often want everything, but he knows what to give and what not to give." Bashyam wasn’t astonished by his reply, as Hanumantharao had always been calm and quiet, accepting whatever came his way during their working days. With a grateful heart, Bashyam departed and thanked God for this visit. It was his first trip to Chennai in 12 years since he and his wife had moved to the US with their daughter, Ramya. K.Ragavan 19-3-25