Bond of Love
A Troubled Relationship
Once upon a time, there lived a farmer named Hari. He had a son named Govind, who was a source of great anxiety for his father. Govind was a good-for-nothing boy, and despite Hari’s frequent scoldings, he did not improve. Eventually, Hari married his son off to a neighbor’s daughter, hoping that marriage would temper his wayward son, but this hope was in vain.
Seeking Independence
One day, Govind approached Hari and said, “Father, I want my share of the property. I will go away and live independently elsewhere.” Hari was taken aback by this request. “Son, why do you want to leave me? Live here and be happy with us,” he replied. Govind, filled with anger, retorted, “No, father! You’ve never liked me. All I’ve received from you are abuses and kicks. I shall go away and live as I please.”
A Father’s Dilemma
Realizing that further argument was futile, Hari reluctantly gave a portion of his property to Govind. Govind moved to another town and began his new life happily. In time, a son named Krishnan was born to him. Yet, much to Govind’s dismay, Krishnan grew up to be as wayward as his father had been.
The Cycle Continues
Govind exhausted all efforts to correct his son’s slothful habits, but nothing worked. In despair one day, he beat Krishnan with a stick, prompting the boy to run away. Krishnan sought refuge at his grandfather’s house and recounted the events. Hari took Krishnan to another home and instructed him to stay there. Shortly after, Govind came searching for his son and complained to Hari about Krishnan’s behavior.
A Harsh Truth
“Father, Krishnan has become an idler and a loafer. I scolded him for his conduct, but now he has run away, and I don’t know where he has gone,” Govind lamented. Hari replied with contempt, “It seems your son is following in your footsteps. Never mind. Let him go. He’s been a wicked lad, and it’s no loss anyway.” Though dissatisfied with his father’s words, Govind recognized their truth.
A Father’s Love
Despite his discontent, Govind’s love for Krishnan was immense, and he began to pine for the lost boy. Soon, he fell seriously ill. Learning of his son’s condition, Hari visited him, bringing Krishnan, who had realized the folly of his ways. Govind was overjoyed to see his son restored to him, safe and sound. Then Hari said, “Govind, know that a father loves his son dearly. You knew your son was a loafer, yet when he ran away, you could not bear the shock. Such is the bond of love. Can you now imagine how much I must have felt when my son left me?”
Redemption and Forgiveness
Hari’s words struck a chord, and Govind felt deeply ashamed for his behavior. He fell at his father’s feet and begged for forgiveness. After that, he took up residence with his father again and lived happily ever afterward.