Small Story 220.

Small Story 220. "Real Gratitude" Murthy returned from the bank. He was set to retire next week after thirty-two years of service as a bank manager. His wife, Rama, brought him tea and his favorite evening snack—hot pakoras. Their family was small—just the two of them—and they had no children. Their loyal servant, Poongothai, had been working with them for nearly twenty years. She had a daughter, Kanaka, who was currently in college. Poongothai earned a monthly salary of twenty thousand rupees. Out of that, she managed to pay rent, handle household expenses, pay Kanaka’s college fees, and still save five hundred rupees each month. Her husband had been bedridden for seven years, unable to work. Poongothai was an honest, sincere, and hardworking woman in her fifties. Kanaka, too, was a bright and pleasant young girl. As they sat down, Rama said, “Next week, you’ll be retiring. How will you manage your time? You're always so active.” Murthy smiled, “Don’t worry. I have a few plans. I’ll deposit fifty percent of my retirement benefits in a fixed deposit. The interest from that will be used to support deserving people—students, and families struggling to make ends meet. Our pension will take care of our own needs.” “What a lovely idea,” Rama nodded. “I’ve known you for more than thirty-three years now, and I’ve always admired your good heart and desire to help others.” Murthy replied, “I’ve struggled in life and understand the value of money. That’s why I want to help.” Kanaka, who was listening, said, “Uncle, you're such a noble person with a big heart.” Murthy smiled, “No, Kanaka. Whatever little I’ve received from God, I want to share. That’s always been my mother’s principle too—helping others whenever possible.” The next week, Murthy received his retirement benefits. He deposited 50% into a fixed deposit, which yielded a monthly interest of twenty thousand rupees. He decided to use this amount to support students and struggling families. Through a recommendation from his friend Narayan, Murthy came to know about a lady named Ranjitham, who had lost her husband and had no source of income. She met Murthy, and he arranged to give her fifteen thousand rupees every month for three years. She gratefully shared her bank account details and left. Three years later, Murthy was watching TV when Ranjitham arrived at his home, carrying a cheque for one lakh rupees. Murthy was surprised. She explained, “Sir, each month I received ₹15,000 from you. I used to invest ₹5,000 of it in a small savings plan. Over three years, I’ve earned a net profit of two lakhs. I’ve come to give one lakh back to you and your wife, to thank you for your noble help.” Murthy’s eyes filled with tears. “Your gratitude means more to me than money. I helped you because it was the right thing to do. Now, take this money and help others like you. One doesn’t need millions or billions to make a difference. Respecting money and valuing people—that is the real wealth.” Ranjitham also shed tears, deeply moved by his words and kindness. K.Ragavan 19-4-25