THE BEGGAR'S BLESSING
"Don't be proud that we are feeding others. Who knows, perhaps we ourselves are eating because of the fate of others." These wise words echoed in the heart of Pratik, a restaurant owner whose breakfast spot was renowned for its delicious offerings and bustling morning crowd.
Every day, amidst the lively chatter and clatter of plates, a quiet man would slip in. He'd discreetly take a plate of breakfast, eat it, and then vanish without a trace, leaving no payment behind. Pratik, though aware of this, never confronted him. He simply observed, a silent understanding passing between them.
The restaurant's popularity soared, attracting new patrons, including a sharp-eyed businessman. After enjoying the breakfast for a few days, he noticed the peculiar routine of the silent eater. Concerned about the potential loss to the restaurant, he approached Pratik, who was busy navigating the morning rush.
"Sir, I have something important to tell you," the businessman began. Pratik, ever polite, requested him to wait until the crowd thinned. The businessman, eager to expose what he perceived as a deception, patiently waited.
Once the customers dwindled, he approached Pratik again. "Sir, a man comes here every morning, eats breakfast, and leaves without paying. I've seen him do it for a week straight! You're losing money!"
Pratik listened, a gentle smile playing on his lips. "Sir, you're not the first to tell me this," he said calmly. "Many have. And that crowd you see every morning? It's because of him."
The businessman was stunned. "What are you talking about? The man causing you losses is responsible for your success?"
"Yes," Pratik affirmed. "The first time someone pointed him out, I followed him. He wasn't a thief, sir. He's a beggar at the nearby signal. I never insulted him, never chased him away, never scolded him. I just let him be."
One day, Pratik witnessed something extraordinary. The beggar stood outside the restaurant, hands folded, looking up at the sky. He was praying, "Oh God, please let this restaurant be crowded, so I can slip in, eat my fill, and leave without paying."
Pratik's voice softened. "The crowd that comes here, sir, it comes because of his prayer. He comes in that crowd, eats his breakfast, and leaves."
The businessman's eyes widened in understanding. He realised that sometimes, blessings come in the most unexpected forms, and gratitude can yield far more than material gain.
This story serves as a powerful reminder that we often feel we achieve success on our own. However, countless times, it's the prayers and blessings of others that work wonders in our lives. So, value everyone, harbour love in your heart, and always show gratitude to those around you and to God. Remember, your hard work, combined with divine blessings and the love of your dear ones, can make you an inspiration to the world.
