2. Pigeon.

A 50 something lady was setting up a small stall for selling water and beverages she had got in a big plastic bag. It must be heavy for her to carry. She had also gotten a big umbrella with her that she fixed with a support on the ground.

While I was observing her from the time she walked in, the next thing she did was taking out a pet jar from her belongings and walking a couple of meters towards north. I started concentrating and was amazed to see that she took out some grains from that jar and started feeding the pigeons. Amid a wonderful breeze, around 30 odd pigeons flocked over and started consuming the edibles served for them on the platter provided by Mother Nature.

I had to approach her with my inquisitiveness. I went and sat next to her thereby asking her – May I ask you a question? She was like – Go ahead.

I initiate with a sentence followed by a question – I see that you are running a small business which I am sure you are satisfied with but my query here is why do you get food for someone (pigeons) who is not going to offer you anything in return?

To which she replied – Who said I am not going to get anything in return. These folks come here every day and shower their blessings on me. It’s something that they give me much more than I offer them.

I expressed as if that was not convincing enough for me. I added – I appreciate your thought but in today’s world of give and take, what is the value of the blessings and how does the blessing help in reality?

She nodded and quoted these words – Look son, blessings are something that are not visible but as a result of that a natural and effortless phenomena occurs which makes me feel that the endless thirst is quenched for a while. Ultimately, we all are here to run the race but it’s so very important to stop for a while, do something for people around us and as a result cherish the soothing experience that is going to dwell eternally.

I expressed my gratitude, started the vehicle and left with the flow of memories that made me relish for quite some time.