Small Story 638.

 Small Story 638.

A Mission Fulfilled

After his retirement, Swamy settled in Tenkasi, his native place. He and his better half, Lakshmi, happily spent their days in their small house, enjoying the cool breeze, beautiful scenery, and peaceful life that comfortably fit within his pension.

Swamy had retired as the Headmaster of a high school in Dindigul. His long teaching career had taught him many lessons, not only in academics but also in human relationships. His students had been brilliant, and many were now serving in various professions across the country.

One day, he took out an album containing photographs from his final year of service. As he looked through the pictures, he fondly remembered his students. Many of them had often sought his advice about their future careers after completing their studies.

All his students respected him deeply for his excellent English teaching and his gentle nature. Whenever they asked for career guidance, Swamy would tell them, "If even one of you dedicates your life to caring for and educating physically challenged children, I will be truly happy."

Seeing him absorbed in the album, Lakshmi smiled and said, "You are remembering the advice you gave your students during your last year of service."

"Yes," replied Swamy. "Fifteen years have passed since then. I do not know what God has planned."

The next day, the couple visited the famous Courtallam Falls and later had darshan at a nearby temple. While having breakfast at a hotel, Swamy noticed a large banner on the wall. It displayed a beautiful building with seven physically challenged children sitting happily in front of it.

Curious, Swamy asked the hotel proprietor about it.

"Sir," the proprietor replied, "this is a newly started children's home in the Vanarapettai area of Tirunelveli. The founder's name is Rahim."

After returning home, Swamy once again looked through his old album. Then he picked up the brochure he had brought from the hotel and dialed the phone number printed on it.

After a few rings, a voice answered, "Hello, Vanakkam. How may we help you?"

The voice sounded familiar.

Immediately, Swamy asked, "Are you Rahim, my student? Your voice was always unique and respectful."

The person on the other end replied excitedly, "Yes, Sir! I am Rahim. I recognized your voice too. I have been searching for you. Sir, I have fulfilled your mission."

Swamy's eyes filled with tears. "Yes, Rahim. After seeing your children's home, I felt I must call you."

"Sir, you must visit us," Rahim said warmly.

"Certainly. I will come this Sunday and meet the children," Swamy replied.

After the conversation ended, tears of joy flowed from both their eyes.

The teacher was happy because the mission he had inspired years ago had finally been fulfilled. The student was happy because he had fulfilled the dream of his beloved guru.

Moral:

A teacher's true success is not measured by the lessons taught in the classroom, but by the values that continue to live in the hearts of students.

K.Ragavan

11-6-26