A Nice Remedy
A Farmer’s Dilemma
In a certain village lived a prosperous farmer named Kishan. One day, his wife fell ill, and despite the efforts of many physicians, her condition worsened.
The Fortune Teller
In another village, some distance away, there lived a renowned fortune teller named Hari. Many people sought his guidance, hoping for predictions about their futures, which varied in accuracy. Generally, it was believed that he was quite skilled at making accurate predictions.
A Desperate Consultation
Faced with his wife’s deteriorating health, Kishan decided to consult the oracle and set off with many gifts in hand.
The Oracle’s Warning
Now, Hari was known for his ill temper and had little patience for those who annoyed him with repeated questions. People were expected to speak clearly and distinctly in his presence, and no one dared to repeat a question for fear of being rebuked by the irate fortune teller.
The Supposed Cause
When Kishan presented his gifts to Hari, the fortune teller examined him closely and stated, “Well, Kishan, I know you have come to consult me about your wife’s illness. Otherwise, why would you travel so far? You have a proud nature, and you have gone against what is natural. That is why your wife suffers. You have halted the natural flow of something. If you can remedy that, your wife will recover.”
Seeking Clarity
Kishan was baffled by this cryptic statement, but he nodded in agreement, fearing to provoke Hari with his lack of understanding. After much contemplation about Hari’s words regarding the natural flow, he deduced it had to do with the water from the canal he had diverted to his field, thus depriving his neighbour. He decided to redirect the water back to his neighbour’s field, which surprised the latter immensely.
Desperation Sets In
Despite his efforts, his wife’s fever persisted. Kishan tried various remedies, but none proved effective.
The Second Visit
Finally, desperate for answers, he returned to Hari, who chuckled indulgently upon seeing him. “So you’ve come back because you didn’t understand my meaning, and meanwhile, your wife’s health has significantly worsened. You fool, I was talking about your pride! Ever since you married her, you’ve deemed your father-in-law inferior, which has prevented you from sending your wife home to her parents. That’s why she has withered away and is now at death’s door. Take her home before it’s too late.”
A Realization
Kishan realized how foolish he had been and promptly took his wife to her parents’ home. The old couple was overjoyed to see their daughter, and she was equally delighted to be with them.
Road to Recovery
From that day on, her health improved, and she regained her former self. Kishan understood that often physical ailments could be traced back to mental causes.
Moral
If a wife wishes to visit her parents, do not stand in her way. It is great to think well; it is divine to act well.