A Change Sets In

Manikyam was once caught red-handed while accepting a bribe and was sentenced to undergo imprisonment and hard labor. However, instead of serving time in prison, he was sent to an institute for mentally handicapped and disabled children. The care of these children was entrusted to the prisoners who were assigned to the facility.

One day, the wise sage Sadanand visited the institute and stayed for ten days, tending to the children as if they were his own. “You’re truly a great person!” Manikyam remarked. “Tell me, is it your destiny also to look after these children? I had no other alternative, but I do feel ashamed of my work here.”

“Ashamed, did you say?” the sage replied, horrified by Manikyam’s sentiment. “Why should you feel ashamed? There is no greater service than serving humanity.” Manikyam took a moment to reflect and responded, “It’s only now that I realize I am also doing a great service.” “If you were to think more deeply,” advised the sage, “you’ll find even greater significance in your actions.” Manikyam gradually came to understand that while he was at the institute as part of his punishment, sage Sadanand had come there of his own volition to assist the unfortunate children. He realized that he should not have criticized the sage for his noble work.

From that day forward, Manikyam changed his attitude and embarked on a path toward reformation. His experience at the institute not only transformed his perspective on service but also reshaped his view of life itself.