Small Story 356.

Small Story 356: A Small Act, A Big Dream Fulfilled Amritha was incredibly proud of her son, Ajay, who was excelling in his studies in Catering Technology and had earned good recognition from his institute. Ajay had one clear ambition — to work in the Emirates, just like many of his friends who were now well-settled in their careers abroad. However, unlike his friends, Ajay didn’t know anyone who could recommend him for a job in the hotel industry overseas. One day, he met a friend and handed him his biodata, asking if he knew anyone in the Emirates who could help. Later, while traveling home on a bus, Ajay noticed a little girl, about 7 years old, sitting beside him. When the conductor came to check tickets, she nervously began searching her pockets, only to realize she had forgotten her wallet. Understanding the situation, Ajay gently told the conductor to issue a ticket for her destination, and he paid for it. As the girl got down at her stop, she turned back, smiled, and said thank you. She asked Ajay for his phone number and quickly scribbled it down. Days passed, and Ajay, still anxious about his career, suddenly received a phone call. “Hello, is this Ajay? I’m Sophia, Menaka’s mother. You helped my daughter in the bus the other day. I’d love to invite you to our Christmas celebration tomorrow. I’ve shared the location.” The next day at 5 PM, Ajay arrived at the address — a beautiful three-bedroom apartment in the heart of Basavangudi. Sophia, a graceful woman in her mid-40s, welcomed him warmly. She thanked him sincerely for helping her daughter and offered him the Rs. 3 for the bus ticket, which Ajay initially refused. But Sophia insisted, saying, “On principle, please accept it,” and Ajay agreed with a smile. Later, Menaka returned from her friend’s home and was delighted to see Ajay. They all shared snacks and enjoyed a delicious cake baked by Sophia. As they chatted, Sophia asked Ajay about his profession and his aspirations. She listened attentively and seemed pleased with his ambition and sincerity. A few days later, Ajay was surprised to receive an email from Sheraton Hotel, Dubai, requesting his biodata. Unsure who had sent it, he forwarded his credentials as asked. A week later, an official appointment letter and visa arrived, asking him to join in a month’s time. Still wondering who had helped him, he received a call. “Hi Ajay, this is Sophia. Hope you got the offer from Sheraton Dubai?” “Yes, ma'am! I did,” Ajay replied in amazement. “My husband Fredrick is the HR Manager there. He reviewed your profile and selected you. Congratulations!” Ajay was overwhelmed. “Thank you so much! I can’t believe my small gesture led to such a big opportunity. I'm truly grateful to you and your husband.” Sophia replied warmly, “Not at all. We believe in kindness and friendship — this was our chance to help a deserving person.” Ajay was touched. “Truly, friendship is the best ship in the world,” he said with a smile. Back home, his parents were overjoyed — their son’s ambition had been fulfilled… all because of a simple bus ticket. K.Ragavan 2-9-25