The True Son

The Woman and Her Struggles

There was a small village on the outskirts of a forest. At the end of the village lived an old woman and her son in a modest house. Each day, the woman ventured into the forest to collect sticks, which she sold at the market. Despite her efforts, it was with great difficulty that she managed to provide for herself and her son.

The Son’s Greed

Her son, however, was indifferent to his mother’s worries. He often demanded money from her and grew furious one day when she couldn’t satisfy his needs. In a fit of anger, he stormed out of the house.

A Tragic Fall

As the days passed, the woman grew weaker due to old age. One fateful day, a strong wind knocked her down, and she fainted in the forest. Fortunately, a young man passing by noticed her condition. He fetched water from a nearby spring and splashed it on her face, bringing her back to consciousness.

A Kind Encounter

Taking a deep breath, the woman asked the young man, “Who are you, son?” He replied, “I am an orphan, roaming around in search of a job.” With considerable effort, she stood up and attempted to lift the bundle of sticks she had collected, but the young man insisted, “Let me carry it to your home. That would please me.”

Building a Connection

Upon arriving at her home, the grateful woman offered, “My son! Stay with me until you find work.” The young man agreed and soon began helping her with various tasks. He carried the sticks to the market, giving her more time to collect even more. Together, they managed to live fairly well and save a little money.

The Son’s Return

Suddenly, one day, her own son returned, having learned of his mother’s newfound prosperity. He demanded money from her, but she refused to give him even a single paisa. Furious, the son quarreled with the young man, who only tried to advise him to join them in their work. The son’s sole focus was on how to drive the young man away.

A Clever Scheme

One day, while both boys were out, the woman hid all her savings in a secret place. She made a hole in the floor of the house and scattered the kitchen utensils. When the boys returned, she cried out, “All my money has been taken away by thieves!”

Revelations and True Bonds

The son sneered, “You brought this upon yourself! You refused even a paisa to me. Now see what has happened! I hate being with you!” With that, he stormed out. The young man comforted her, saying, “Mother, do not feel sad. Such things happen to many. We have earned the money ourselves; we will earn it again!”

A Mother’s Insight

With a warm smile, the woman replied, “My boy! Our money is safe. I just wanted my son to stop pestering me. I am grateful that he has left. You are my true son.”