A recipe for perseverance and success

 KENTUCKY FRIED CHICKEN (KFC)

When you see the smiling face of Colonel Sanders on a bucket of KFC chicken, you might just think of tasty fried food — but behind that logo lies one of the most remarkable true stories of perseverance, failure, and late success in business history.

The story of Harland David Sanders, founder of Kentucky Fried Chicken (KFC), teaches us that it is never too late to chase your dreams — and that every failure can be a step toward success.

🍗 Early life and Struggles: Harland Sanders was born on September 9, 1890, in Henryville, Indiana, USA, into a poor farming family. His father died when Harland was just six years old, leaving his mother to work long hours to support the family. As the eldest child, Sanders took responsibility for cooking and caring for his younger siblings — a skill that would later shape his destiny.

But school wasn’t easy for him. He often clashed with teachers and dropped out by the seventh grade, at age 12. Over the years, he worked in a string of different jobs — as a farmhand, streetcar conductor, railroad fireman, insurance salesman, and even a ferryboat operator. However, he lost most of these jobs due to bad luck or disagreements with employers.

By his mid-30s, Sanders had already faced more failures than most people face in a lifetime — but he refused to give up.

🍗 The birth of his passion: In the early 1930s, during the Great Depression, Sanders began operating a service station in Corbin, Kentucky, where he also served meals to travellers. Word quickly spread about his delicious home-cooked dishes, especially his fried chicken.

He kept experimenting with spices and cooking techniques until he perfected his famous recipe — a blend of 11 herbs and spices, the exact ingredients of which remain a secret to this day. To make cooking faster, he also developed a unique pressure-frying technique, which allowed the chicken to cook quickly while staying crispy on the outside and tender inside.

By 1935, his food had gained so much popularity that the Governor of Kentucky awarded him the honorary title of “Colonel” — a title that would stick with him for life.

🍗 Setbacks and starting over: Despite his growing reputation, Sanders faced another major setback in the 1950s. A new interstate highway was built, bypassing Corbin, and traffic to his restaurant dropped drastically. At the age of 65, he was forced to sell his restaurant at a loss, leaving him with little more than his savings and his secret recipe.

For most people, this would have been the end. But not for Colonel Sanders.

At an age when most people retire, he decided to start over — determined to share his chicken recipe with the world.

🍗 Rejection after rejection: Armed with nothing but a few cooking utensils and his recipe, Sanders hit the road in his old car. He travelled across the United States, visiting restaurants, cooking for owners, and offering them a franchise deal — if they liked his chicken, they could sell it in their restaurant, and he would receive a small commission for every chicken sold.

He was rejected over 1,000 times before someone finally agreed to partner with him. Most restaurant owners laughed at the idea of paying for a recipe from a retired man. But Sanders persisted. His unwavering belief in his chicken eventually paid off when Pete Harman, a restaurant owner in Salt Lake City, Utah, agreed to franchise his recipe.

Together, they opened the first Kentucky Fried Chicken (KFC) outlet in 1952. Harman also came up with the brand’s famous tagline — “It’s Finger-Lickin’ Good!”

🍗 Rise to fame: By the early 1960s, KFC had become one of America’s fastest-growing food chains. Colonel Sanders, dressed in his trademark white suit and black string tie, became not only the brand’s face but also its living symbol of quality and care.

In 1964, at the age of 73, Sanders sold the company to a group of investors for $2 million, though he continued to serve as its ambassador and spokesperson. Under new management, KFC expanded rapidly, reaching over 600 franchises within the next few years and soon spreading internationally to Canada, the UK, Mexico, and beyond.

🍗 Legacy and life lessons: Colonel Sanders passed away in 1980 at the age of 90, but his legacy continues to live on through the global success of KFC, which now operates in more than 150 countries and serves millions of customers every day.

His life is a shining example of how persistence, resilience, and self-belief can turn even the hardest failures into lasting success. From losing jobs and businesses to being rejected hundreds of times, Sanders proved that age is no barrier and that determination can overcome almost anything.

🍗 Did You Know? 

🐥The original handwritten “11 herbs and spices” recipe is kept in a vault at KFC headquarters in Louisville, Kentucky.

🐤Colonel Sanders received more than 1,000 rejections before finding his first franchise partner.

🐥 KFC was the first American fast-food chain to open in China (in 1987) — and is now one of the most popular restaurants there.

🐤The Colonel’s famous white suit became his personal trademark — he was even buried wearing it.

🍗 Conclusion: Colonel Harland Sanders’ story isn’t just about fried chicken — it’s about never giving up, no matter how many times you fail. He began his greatest success story at an age when most people stop dreaming. His journey from a poor farm boy to a global business icon continues to inspire millions to follow their passions, no matter the obstacles.

So, the next time you enjoy a crispy piece of KFC chicken, remember: it’s not just a recipe — it’s the taste of courage, persistence, and the power of believing in yourself.

A lesson on reading

 THE STRAINER AND THE RIVER 

A young student once approached his teacher with a troubled look.

“Master,” he said, “I’ve read so many books… but I’ve forgotten most of them. What’s the point of reading if I can’t remember?”

The teacher did not reply. Instead, he gave the boy a calm, knowing glance and allowed the question to linger in silence.

Days passed. One afternoon, they sat together by a flowing river. The teacher suddenly spoke, “I’m thirsty. Bring me some water… but use that old strainer lying on the ground.”

The student looked puzzled. A strainer? With so many holes? Surely, it was a useless task. Yet, out of respect, he obeyed.

He dipped the strainer into the water and hurried back—but by the time he reached the teacher, it was empty.

He tried again. And again.

He ran faster, tilted it at different angles, even tried covering holes with his fingers. But the water slipped through every time.

At last, exhausted and disheartened, the boy dropped the strainer at the teacher’s feet. “Master, I’ve failed. It’s impossible to carry water in this.”

The teacher smiled gently. “You did not fail. Look closely at the strainer.”

The boy glanced down—and his eyes widened. The once old, dusty, blackened strainer was now shining clean. Though it had carried no water, the river had washed it, over and over, until it gleamed like new.

The teacher then explained,

“This is what happens when you read. You may not retain every story, every word, or every lesson. Just like the water, much of it may slip away. But the very act of reading cleanses your mind. It refreshes your thoughts, nourishes your spirit, and leaves you brighter, lighter, and wiser—often without you even realising it.”

The student’s heart filled with understanding. At last, he knew: the true purpose of reading was not to store knowledge like a vessel… but to let it flow through him, shaping and purifying his soul.

✨ Moral: Books may not fill your memory, but they will always cleanse your mind and enrich your spirit.

A voice of the people against injustice

LOKMANYA TILAK AND THE PLAGUE 

In the heart of British-ruled India, when fear gripped the city of Poona (now Pune) during a deadly plague outbreak in the late 1890s, one man dared to raise his voice against both the disease and the oppressive methods used to control it. That man was Lokmanya Bal Gangadhar Tilak—a fearless leader, a fiery writer, and a patriot who chose truth over fear.

The Plague Strikes Poona: As the bubonic plague spread rapidly across Poona, panic and chaos overtook the city. In response, the British government launched aggressive containment measures. These were not just strict but harsh and humiliating. People were forcibly removed from their homes, personal belongings were burned, and even women were subjected to intrusive inspections—violating the dignity and customs of Indian families.

The head of this operation, Walter Charles Rand, became infamous for his brutal tactics. Far from offering relief, the plague policies added to the misery of the already suffering people.

The Pen That Roared: Tilak’s Voice in Kesari

Amidst this crisis, Lokmanya Tilak emerged as a beacon of resistance. Through his Marathi newspaper, Kesari, he became the voice of the people’s pain. His editorials openly criticised the British response, exposing their insensitivity and cruelty.

In one of his most powerful writings, Tilak asked,

“Has the Government gone mad?”

He compared the plague and the British rule, calling both equally tormenting. Another article questioned:

“To what purpose are these plagues of insects coming to the Earth?”

Tilak did not promote violence, but his words ignited the public’s anger. He awakened the consciousness of Indians, making them realise that they had the right to question and oppose unjust rulers.

The Assassination and the Aftermath: On June 22, 1897, Walter Charles Rand and his aide Lieutenant Ayerst were assassinated by the Chapekar brothers, who had been deeply disturbed by the atrocities committed during the plague operations. Though Tilak had not incited the act, the British government needed someone to blame.

Tilak’s fearless writings became the prime evidence. He was arrested, charged with sedition, and put on trial. In court, Tilak defended himself with dignity, stating that he had only fulfilled his duty as a journalist—to expose the truth and stand with the people.

Despite his defense, he was sentenced to 18 months in prison. But rather than weaken his influence, this trial strengthened his image as a national hero.

Lokmanya: The Leader Loved by the People

This incident, remembered as part of the "Poona Riots", cemented Tilak’s place in the Indian freedom movement. His fearless stand against injustice, his willingness to suffer for his people, and his powerful use of the pen inspired thousands. He came to be known as "Lokmanya"—one who is accepted and revered by the people.

Tilak once said:

"Swaraj is my birthright, and I shall have it."

This was not just a slogan—it was a call to action, and it stirred an entire generation.

Conclusion: Lokmanya Tilak’s story is not just a chapter in history. It is a lesson in courage, truth, and leadership. Even in the darkest times, he showed that a single voice, when raised with conviction, can shake an empire. His life continues to inspire us to stand for what is right, no matter the cost.

“Real strength is trusting when you have nothing left

 WHEN HOPE MEETS TRUST 

Once a man lost his way in the desert. The little food and water he had was finished, and for the last two days he was desperate for even a drop of water.

He knew that if he didn’t find water soon, he would die in a few hours. Still, a small hope was alive inside him, so he kept searching for water. He didn’t give up.

He kept hoping he might find water somewhere. That’s when he saw a hut.

At first, he couldn’t believe his eyes.

Earlier too, he had been tricked by mirages in the desert. But he had no other choice but to believe it this time. After all, this was his last hope.

He gathered his remaining strength and walked towards the hut. As he got closer, his hope grew. This time, luck was on his side. The hut was real.

But when he reached, he saw that the hut was deserted. It looked like no one had been there for years. Still, the man went inside, hoping to find water.

Inside, he was shocked. There was a hand pump. Filled with new energy, he quickly went to the pump and tried to draw water.

But the pump was dry. It seemed it hadn’t worked for a long time.

Disappointed, he fell to the ground. He thought he would surely die now.

Just then, he noticed a bottle tied to the roof. Somehow he managed to reach it. He was about to open the bottle and drink the water when he saw a note stuck to it. The note said:

“𝗨𝘀𝗲 𝘁𝗵𝗶𝘀 𝘄𝗮𝘁𝗲𝗿 𝘁𝗼 𝘀𝘁𝗮𝗿𝘁 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗽𝘂𝗺𝗽. 𝗔𝗻𝗱 𝗱𝗼𝗻’𝘁 𝗳𝗼𝗿𝗴𝗲𝘁 𝘁𝗼 𝗳𝗶𝗹𝗹 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗯𝗼𝘁𝘁𝗹𝗲 𝗮𝗴𝗮𝗶𝗻 𝗳𝗼𝗿 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗻𝗲𝘅𝘁 𝗽𝗲𝗿𝘀𝗼𝗻.”

This confused him. Should he drink the water and save himself? Or should he pour it into the pump, hoping it would work?

Many thoughts ran through his mind. What if the pump didn’t work even after he poured the water? What if the note was wrong, and even the underground water was gone? But what if the pump worked and gave him plenty of water? He was unsure.

Finally, he decided to trust the note. With shaking hands, he poured the water into the pump.

𝗧𝗵𝗲𝗻 𝗵𝗲 𝘀𝘁𝗮𝗿𝘁𝗲𝗱 𝗽𝘂𝗺𝗽𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝘄𝗶𝘁𝗵 𝗵𝗼𝗽𝗲.

After a few tries, water began to flow. Cool, fresh water! He drank as much as he wanted. His mind became clear again.

He then refilled the bottle and tied it back to the roof, just as the note had asked.

While doing this, he noticed another glass bottle. Inside it was a pencil and a map showing the way out of the desert.

He memorised the way and put the map back, filled his own water bottles, and got ready to leave.

He walked a little ahead, then stopped and looked back. He thought for a moment, went back to the hut, and wrote on the note:

“𝗕𝗲𝗹𝗶𝗲𝘃𝗲 𝗺𝗲, 𝘁𝗵𝗶𝘀 𝗵𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗽𝘂𝗺𝗽 𝘄𝗼𝗿𝗸𝘀.”

-------------------

𝗧𝗵𝗶𝘀 𝘀𝘁𝗼𝗿𝘆 𝗶𝘀 𝗮𝗯𝗼𝘂𝘁 𝗹𝗶𝗳𝗲.

It teaches us to never lose hope, even in the worst times.

It also shows that before getting something big, we often have to give something from our side — just like the man poured all the water he had into the pump first.

In this story, water stands for the precious things in our lives — like knowledge, love, or money.

To get these, we must first put in our efforts, like pouring water into the hand pump of life. In return, we often receive much more than we gave.

It also shows how doing good can spread from one person to another, slowly making the whole world better.

A Story of Strength, Struggle, and Success

NEVER GIVE UP💪

🌱 "Falling down is not failure. Refusing to rise again is."

One day, a loving father took his son to a famous wrestling coach. He wanted his child to become strong and determined. The boy trained hard every day for three months. Then one day, the father came to watch the practice. But what he saw shocked him!

His son was being thrown to the ground again and again by a strong, experienced wrestler. The boy fell more than twenty times in just one session! The father was upset. He ran to the coach and said, “Why are you letting my son get beaten like this?”

The coach smiled and said,

“Yes, your son fell down twenty times… but did you see? He got up all twenty times! That’s what matters. He is learning not to give up. He is becoming a fighter.”

That is called resilience — the power to get back up, no matter how many times life pushes you down.

🔫 The Real-Life Hero: Karoly Takacs

Now let’s meet someone who showed this spirit in real life.

Karoly Takacs was a champion shooter from Hungary. He dreamed of winning an Olympic gold medal. But one day, during a training session, a terrible accident happened — a grenade exploded in his hand. Sadly, it was his right hand, the one he used for shooting.

People thought his career was over. They felt sorry for him. But Karoly didn’t want sympathy. Instead, he quietly started training with his left hand. Day and night, he practiced in secret, learning everything from scratch.

Then came more bad news:

The 1940 Olympics were cancelled due to World War II.

So were the 1944 Olympics.

By the time the 1948 Olympics arrived, Karoly was considered too old. Other athletes joked and asked, “Did you come to watch the matches and cheer us on?”

He smiled and said:

“No, I have come to compete… and to win.”

And guess what? He did just that! 💥

Karoly Takacs won the gold medal in the 1948 and 1952 Olympics — using only his left hand!

🏆 A Quote to Remember

Just like Karoly, many great people believe in this powerful quote by Confucius:

"Our greatest glory is not in never falling, but in rising every time we fall."

🌟 Moral: Life will challenge you. You may face failures, disappointments, or even laughter from others. But what matters most is: Do you get back up?

So, the next time you fall — in sports, in studies, or in any goal — remember Karoly Takacs. Get up. Try again. Never give up.

Bouncing back is more important than the win.

Because that’s how champions are made. 💫

Power of prayer

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.

A brilliant story of a mother’s bravery

HIRKANI 

Women have worked valiantly and diligently throughout history to identify themselves as individuals and specialists in their fields. As a consequence, we can now witness courageous women serving and safeguarding our nation more effectively, as well as acting as an inspiration to millions of young girls throughout the world. Here's one such true story of a Hirkani, a valiant woman under the Maratha Empire who is still recognised for her act of heroism.

Hirkani used to reside near the fort of Raigad. Shivaji took control of the fort in 1674 and made it his capital. Climbing this fort, which is situated on a hilltop, was extremely difficult and practically impossible for anyone. A village used to reside at the base of the fort, and all of the fort's daily necessities were transported along the fort's main road. The fort's gates opened in the morning and closed in the evening. Due to security concerns, it was agreed that the gates would not be opened after daybreak at any cost, as any adversary may enter. Hirkani, like the rest of the villagers, used to go to the fort every day to sell milk.

Hirkani went to the fort to sell milk to the clients like she did every day. However, because her child was sick that day, she arrived late at the fort. She took her time getting to the fort since she came late. As a result, she was unable to return to the departure gate on time. When she returned, she saw that the fort gate had been shut and so she was detained at the gate. Because her child was alone, she pleaded with the soldier to let her go.

The soldier guarding the gate refused to allow her since Shivaji had ordered that the gate be closed after sundown. Hirkani, being the strong mother that she was, couldn't leave her kid alone at night. She made the decision to ascend the slope in the dead of night, and she did it, ultimately reaching her house. When Hirkani returned to the fort gates the next morning, the soldier saw she had several wounds and bruises. Since the soldier had instructed her to stay within the fort the previous night, he was astonished to see her outside the gate. Because an official regulation had been breached, it was determined that she would be presented to Shivaji.

When Shivaji inquired as to why Hirkani walked outside the fort in the evening, the courageous lady said that her kid was alone at home and she couldn't leave him alone. Shivaji was so moved by Hirkani's bravery that he ordered the erection of a wall at the vertical fall. Hirkani Buruj was the name given to this wall in honour of the courageous mother.

Hirkani's narrative has inspired a number of traditional tales and literature, as well as men and women all throughout India. In 2017, the Pune City Police Headquarters dedicated a multi-purpose facility dubbed 'Hirkani' to its female constables and officers, in honor of her bravery.

Amplify Goodness; Forsake Badness

EACH GIVES WHAT HE HAS 

The Berlin Wall, separating East and West Germany, was built on 13 August, 1961. It was historically dismantled on November 9, 1989.

Back in the days when Germany was divided, this huge wall separated East and West Berlin. People on both sides faced not only physical barriers, but also hatred and revenge. One day, in a provocative act, some East Berliners took a truck load of garbage, and dumped it on the West Berlin side of the wall.

Yet, rather than retaliating in a similar way, the West Berliners responded with an astounding display of humanitarian consideration. They took truckloads of canned food, bread, milk, and other provisions, and neatly stacked these on the East Berlin side. Atop the stacks, a simple but deep-impacting message was written: “Each gives what he has”.

The above story reminds us that hate and revenge have never been able to solve anything. Instead, they spiral down into an everlasting abyss of despair and anger. It is said that we can only give what we have. Just as an apple tree gives apples, and a berry tree yields berries, our actions and reactions stem from our essence. The apples and berries come from the essence of their trees. And the essence of each tree is different.

Life is full of good and bad things. In times of crisis, put in your best efforts, and react with intelligence, prudence, and composure. Furthermore, amidst the trials in life, always try to amplify the goodness within you.

Power of words

A MAN AND THE BLIND BOY 

A blind boy sat on the steps of a building with a hat by his feet. He held up a sign which said, "I am blind. Please help."

There were only a few coins in the hat. 

A man was walking by. He took a few coins from his pocket and dropped them into the hat. He then took this sign, turned it around, and wrote some words. He put the sign back so that everyone who walked by could see the new words.

Soon the hat began to fill up. A lot more people were giving money to the blind boy. That afternoon, the man who had changed the sign came to see how things were. 

The boy recognised his footsteps and asked, "Were you the one who changed my sign this morning? What did you write?" 

The man said, "I only wrote the truth. I wrote only what you had written, but in a different way."

What he had written was, "Today is a beautiful day, and I cannot see it."

Do you think the first sign and the second sign were saying the same thing? Of course, both signs told people that the boy was blind. But the first sign simply said the boy was blind. The second sign told the people they were so lucky that they were not blind. Should we be surprised that the second sign was more effective?

Moral of the story: 

Be thankful for what you have. Be creative. Be innovative. Think differently and positively. 

Invite others towards good with wisdom. Live life with no excuses and love life with no regrets. When life gives you a hundred reasons to cry, show life that you have one thousand reasons to smile. Face your past without regrets. Handle your present with confidence. Prepare for the future without fear. Keep the faith and drop the fear. 

Great men say, life has to be an incessant process of repair and reconstruction, of discarding evil and developing goodness. 

In the journey of life, if you want to travel without fear, you must have the ticket of a good conscience. 

The most beautiful thing is to see a person smiling. And even more beautiful is knowing that you are the reason behind it.

AN ANECDOTE FROM THE LIFE OF ABDUL KALAM

The unforgettable cheque

Dr. A. P. J. Abdul Kalam, popularly known as the 'Missile Man of India', held the office of the President of India from 2002 to 2007. He was born at Rameswaram, Tamil Nadu on October 15, 1931. Having graduated in aeronautical engineering from Madras Institute of Technology, he worked in DRDO (Defense Research and Development Organization) and ISRO (Indian Space Research Organization).

His most popular book was his autobiography titled 'Wings of Fire'. The 'Padma Vibhushan' and the 'Bharat Ratna' are among the numerous awards that were conferred on him. He died at the age of 83 in Shillong on July 27, 2015. The following anecdote which highlights his integrity is a tribute to him.

Once, Dr. Abdul Kalam visited a book fair held at Tirupur, Tamil Nadu and addressed the gathering. After the function, a man came to meet him. He greeted Dr. Kalam with folded hands and said, "Sir, I am a big fan of yours. Meeting you is a dream come true for me. I have a private company where we make wet grinders. I would like to give you a wet grinder as a token of my love."

The man pointed to a box by his side. Dr. Kalam smiled and replied, "Well, I am badly in need of a wet grinder. But, I will take your grinder only if you accept a cheque as payment for the same." Dr. Kalam signed a cheque and handed it over to the visitor.

The visitor took the cheque but did not encash it. He preserved it as an autograph of Dr. Kalam. Two months passed by. One day, he received a call from Dr. Kalam's secretary. The secretary asked him, "Why have you not encashed the cheque at the bank? If you do not do so immediately, we will send your wet grinder, which is still unpacked, back to you."

The man was thus forced to accept payment for his gift. Ordinary people become extraordinary by their words and deeds, which are guided by noble thoughts.

STORY TIME

The suitcase

A man realised that he was about to die, as he saw God coming closer with a suitcase in His hand. God said, “All right son, it’s time to go.”

Surprised, the man responded, “Now? So soon? I had a lot of plans...”

“I’m sorry, but it’s time to go.”

“What do you have in that suitcase?” the man asked.

“Your belongings.”

“My belongings? You mean my things, my clothes, my money?” the man wondered.

“Those things were not yours; they belonged to the earth,” God replied.

“Is it my memories?” the man asked.

“Those never belonged to you, they belonged to time.”

“Is it my talents?”

“Those were never yours, they belonged to the circumstances.”

“Is it my friends and family?”

“I’m sorry they were never yours, they belonged to the path,” God said, as He shook His head.

“Is it my body?” the man asked.

“That was never yours, it belonged to the dust.”

“Is it my soul?"

Again God shook His head, “No that is mine.”

Full of fear, the man took the suitcase from God and opened it, just to find that the suitcase was empty. With tears coming down his cheeks, the man said, “I never had anything?”

God answered, “That is correct; every moment you lived was only yours. Life is just a moment, a moment that belongs to you. You were born with empty hands and will die empty-handed."

☆☆☆

For this reason, enjoy this time while you have it. Don’t let anything that you think you own, stop you from doing so. Live now. Live your life with kindness and love. Don’t forget to be happy; after all, this is the only thing that matters.”

A SHORT MORAL STORY

Two Basket Weavers

A wealthy king decided to hold a contest among two highly skilled basket weavers. Ultimately, he wanted to determine who could weave more baskets in a day. The two women would contest for the fastest weaver, with the winner to be awarded a large sum of money as a prize.

It started early in the morning, on the day of the contest, with the two women set to weave their best.

However, one of the women seemed faster than the other, and in only five hours, she had woven two baskets. Meanwhile, the other woman became jealous as she was still on her first basket. 

Shorty, the king came to inspect the two busy women. And then, quite unexpectedly, he said to the faster woman.

"Your baskets are a bit smaller than the required size. You didn't follow the contest rules, therefore you must start all over again. Remember that you don't have much time left"

The jealous woman was so gladdened by what the king had said and she silently mocked the faster woman. She knew it was a great opportunity for her to win the contest.

However, the faster woman wasn't discouraged by her plight. With so much determination and commitment, she started all over again, hoping to achieve success.

By the end of the day, the two women were made to stop weaving as the contest was over. It was time to know the winner.

The other woman had excellently made ten baskets. Everyone was impressed by her skills.

But to the greatest surprise of all, the woman who was made to restart hers, had woven eleven baskets. She still won.

The king who couldn't contain his astonishment and curiosity, asked the faster woman. 

"You had very limited time. Come on, tell me how you won?"

The woman smiled and said. 

"Magic starts to happen once you start believing in yourself"

Many of us tend to give up when things get too hard. We allow disappointments to cripple our self esteem and kill the passion to pursue our dreams. We are afraid to start all over again as we think it's always too late. However, we need to understand that the moment we start believing in ourselves, we start creating confidence. And with confidence, we can do anything in life.

A STORY WORTH YOUR TIME

 Six Golden Eggs 

A young girl asked her grandfather,

"Papa, what can you teach me that can be useful in my life?" 

The grandfather thought for a long time, and then he said,

"I think I have a powerful life lesson to teach you. But before that, you have to do something that will get everyone's attention, something huge." 

The girl asked pleasantly,

"Something like what, Papa?"

The grandfather paused for a moment, then whistled,

"You should go around the neighborhood and tell everyone that my ostrich had laid six golden eggs. They would all be surprised to hear it. Then tell them that each egg is worth many millions, and that I would become a multimillionaire by selling them. Tell everyone that soon my life would change forever, and I would become one of the richest person in the society."

The young girl did so without understanding the essence of it. After she came back, she and her grandfather waited all day and into the night, but none of their neighbours showed up at their house to congratulate them and rejoice with them.

The following morning, the grandfather said to the girl,

"Now, you should go back around the neighborhood and tell everyone that during last night, a thief came and destroyed my house, killed my ostrich and stole all the golden eggs. Tell them I've lost everything!"

The girl went out and told the neighbours so. However, after a short while, a shocking number of people crowded at their house. Surprised, the young girl asked her grandfather, 

"Papa, why is it that a lot of people showed up today, but none came yesterday?"

The grandfather smiled and said,

"When people hear good news about you, they stay silent, ignore it and act like nothing happened. But when they hear bad news about you, they spread it like wildfire, and rush to confirm if it is true. People will find it difficult to celebrate your success, but will rush to witness your downfall..." 

At that moment, the grandfather placed an arm around the girl's shoulders, smiled again, and then continued, 

"Now this is the powerful life lesson I've got to teach you... The biggest lie we are told by people around us is that they are happy to see us succeed. The truth is, most people, even close friends and neighbours don't want to see you succeed. When someone realises you're becoming more successful than them, it becomes a threat. Most people genuinely do not like people doing better than them. They become jealous, and deep down inside, they want nothing more than to have that life. However, it is important to remember that you cannot control how others act or how they perceive you. Instead, focus on being the best version of yourself. Stop trying to change them, stop worrying about what they are doing. Set your goals, follow your dreams, listen to your heart, and don't let anyone or anything stop you from achieving your dreams.

STORY OF TOLSTOY AND THE YOUNG MAN

Poverty 

One day a young man came to Tolstoy, the famous social thinker and Laureate of Russia. Asking for some help the young man said, "Sir, I am a very poor man. I have no money or means for my livelihood. My life has become very miserable."

Tolstoy looked at him, was surprised and said, "Young man! What do you speak? You appear to be very rich and lucky. Why do you call yourself poor and unfortunate?"

The young man said, "Sir, why are you mocking at my tragic condition and adding salt to my injury? Please be kind to me."

Tolstoy - "No young man! I am not joking, but telling you the truth. You have wealth of millions' worth on your body."

Young man - "Where is that wealth of millions' worth? I hardly have a few pennies in my pocket." 

Tolstoy - "Well, you have two eyes. I have a friend who will buy them for seventy thousand rubles (Russian currency). Tell me, are you willing to part with them?"

Young man - "Oh sir! What are you talking about? If I give you my eyes, I will be fully blind. The whole world will become empty for me. I will not be able to enjoy anything. Therefore, I can't even imagine giving up my eyes."

Tolstoy - Well, if not the eyes, then give both your ears to my friend, and he will give you sixty thousand rubles. Is it acceptable to you?"

Young man - "I cannot part with my ears. If I give up my ears, how will I hear anything?"

Tolstoy - "Then I have a brother, he will be pleased to buy both your hands for eighty thousand rubles. So, you will give your hands to him. Is it right?"

Young man - "Sir! You must be joking! How can I give my hands? Without hands, how will I work and conduct myself? How will I lift the things, even my food and drinks? My two hands alone are the means of existence and subsistence for me. How can I do away with them? Should I make myself a handicap and become worthless forever?"

Tolstoy - "It seems that you are not aware of your other precious possessions. OK, let alone your hands, sell away both your legs. I will buy them myself for ninety thousand rubles. Are you willing?"

Young man - "Sir, if I sell my both legs, I will become totally crippled. I am already a destitute. If I don't have legs, I will become more worthless and totally dependent on others. Therefore, I will definitely not be able to sell my legs."

Tolstoy - "Right, even now you have many valuables, like nose, head etc. and all together, they will be worth millions, yet you seem not willing to sell them. But by now you have understood that you are not really poor. You have limbs worth millions, but due to ignorance and poverty of right thinking you consider yourself to be poor. Tell me from your heart, are you not having millions upon you?"

Young man - "Yes sir, now I realise that I was myself worth millions, but was mis-judging myself to be poor. You have kindly opened my eyes. Tell me, what should I do now, in order to get rid of my apparent poverty?"

Tolstoy said, "Young man you are indeed very fortunate. You have the valuable capital of labour. Take this axe of mine, and earn your fortune by hard work."

The young man paid respects to Tolstoy and went away happily with the axe. 

That is how the person suffers from his mental poverty, till he resolves to endeavour for his betterment, through hard work and sincerity. 

A MOTHER WHO OVERCAME ADVERSITY

 Mary Ann Bevan

Among all human relationships, the bond between a mother and child is perhaps the most sacred one. We've all heard endless tales of a mother's unselfishness, sacrifice, and perseverance. 

How Did She Become 'The Ugliest Woman In The World'?

Born in 1874 in East London, Mary Ann had a tough yet regular childhood. She eventually trained to become a nurse and got married. Shortly thereafter, she had four children and life was usual. But destiny, probably had other plans for her. She was affected by a hormonal condition called acromegaly which caused bone and facial disfigurement. Unfortunately, there was no proper treatment for that precise ailment back then.

As the disease crept in, her once attractive appearance changed drastically over a period of a few years. Meanwhile, her husband passed away suddenly. As if that was not enough, due to her gross appearance she lost her job and all her attempts at finding new means of livelihood went futile. Stressed and embarrassed by her worsening condition, and also widowed at a young age, she was solely liable to provide for her four small children. Her seemingly normal life was utterly disrupted.

As it is often stated, desperate times call for desperate measures. In absolute helplessness, Mary Ann entered the bizarre competition of 'The Ugliest Woman In The World.' Winning the weird title must have been humiliating for her, yet from that day on there was no looking back. She was hired as a 'freak show' performer in Coney Island's Dreamland sideshow. During the 1900s, freak shows served as popular entertainment for the masses. Freaks were people with rare and atypical physical deformities. In the current situation, it might sound strange but this was long before the concepts of inclusivity and body shaming had come into being.

Although her grotesque bodily features were visible to others, her pains and agonies weren't, and for those she had to be more or less constantly under treatment. Despite the physical suffering and the indignity, Mary Ann Bevan in her given state did her best of what could have been done. Throughout her life until she died at the age of 59, she toured different cities and participated in several shows in England and later on in the United States as well. By doing so, she could successfully feed and educate her four children. It is said that every now and then, she would show her children's picture to the people around her, particularly mentioning about the son who was posted in the army. Mary Ann Bevan's story reminds us how cruel at times fate, and in particular the human world can be. At the same time, if we look on the positive side, her life personifies her indomitable spirit as well. As a human being, a woman, and above all a doting mother, Mary Ann Bevan's journey is profoundly inspirational.

SAVOR THE COFFEE

Life is like a cup of coffee

 

A group of alumni, highly established in their careers, got together to visit their old university professor. Conservation soon turned into complaints about stress in work and life. Offering his guests coffee, the professor went to the kitchen and returned with a large pot of coffee and an assortment of cups - porcelain, plastic, glass, crystal, some plain looking, some expensive, some exquisite - telling them to help themselves to the coffee. 

When all the students had a cup of coffee in hand, the professor said, "If you have noticed, all the nice looking expensive cups have been taken up, leaving behind the plain and cheap ones. While it is normal for you to want only the best for yourselves, that is the source of your problems and stress. Be assured that the cup itself adds no quality to the coffee. In most cases it is just more expensive and in some cases even hides what we drink. What all of you really wanted was coffee, not the cup, but you consciously went for the best cups. Now consider this: Life is the coffee. The jobs, money and position in society are the cups. They are just tools to hold and contain Life, and the type of cup we have does not define, nor change the quality of life we live. Sometimes, by concentrating only on the cup, we fail to enjoy the coffee. Savor the coffee, not the cups! The happiest people don't have the best of everything. They just make the best of everything."

TO BRING OUT THE BEST

Work with devotion and passion

When Valmiki completed his Ramayana, Narada wasn't impressed. 

"It is good, but Hanuman's is better", he said.

"Hanuman has written the Ramayana too!", Valmiki didn't like this at all, and wondered whose Ramayana was better.

So he set out to find Hanuman.

In Kadali-vana, grove of plantains, he found Ramayana inscribed on seven broad leaves of a banana tree.

He read it and found it to be perfect. The most exquisite choice of grammar and vocabulary, metre and melody. He couldn't help himself. He started to cry.

"Is it so bad?" asked Hanuman..

"No, it is so good", said Valmiki.

"Then why are you crying?" asked Hanuman.

"Because after reading your Ramayana no one will read my Ramayana." replied Valmiki.

Hearing this Hanuman simply tore up the seven banana leaves stating 

"Now no one will ever read Hanuman's Ramayana.'"

Valmiki was shocked to see this action of Hanuman and asked him why he did this.

Hanuman said, "You need your Ramayana more than I need mine. You wrote your Ramayana so that the world remembers Valmiki; I wrote my Ramayana so that I remember Ram."

At that moment he realised how he had been consumed by the desire for validation through his work.

He had not used the work to liberate himself from the fear of invalidation.

He had not appreciated the essence of Ram's tale to unknot his mind.

His Ramayana was a product of ambition; but Hanuman's Ramayana was a product of pure devotion and affection.

That's why Hanuman's Ramayana sounded so much better. 

That is when Valmiki realised that "Greater than Ram .... is the name of Ram!" 

There are people like Hanuman who don't want to be famous. They just do their jobs and fulfill their purpose.

There are many unsung "Hanumans" in our life too, our mother, father, friends, let's remember them and be grateful to all.

In this world, where everyone is highlighting his work and seeking validation, let us just do our karma (duty).

Our devotion, our passion bring out the best in us and thus in our work. Competition may bring success but if work and life becomes a race and battle to win, the work will loose its charm and passion, devotion will vanish eventually bringing losses and suffering. 

Be humble and the best version of yourself and do what you do with love, devotion and passion and success and love will fill your life.

MORAL STORY

The Potato, the Egg, and the Coffee Beans 

A boy named John was upset. His father found him crying. 

When his father asked John why he was crying, he said that he had a lot of problems in his life. 

His father simply smiled and asked him to a potato, an egg, and some coffee beans. He placed them in three bowls.

He then asked John to feel their texture and then fill each bowl with water. 

John did as he had been told. His father then boiled all three bowls. 

Once the bowls had cooled down, John’s father asked him to feel the texture of the different food items again. 

John noticed that the potato had become soft and its skin was peeling off easily; the egg had become harder; the coffee beans had completely changed and filled the bowl of water with aroma and flavour. 

Moral of the story:

Life will always have problems and pressures, like the boiling water in the story. 

It's how you respond and react to these problems that counts the most.