Their Wish

Old Jagannath had the responsibility of taking care of his two grandsons after his son and daughter-in-law died suddenly during an epidemic. He often wondered how he could raise them to be decent young men.

One day, he shared his worries with his friend Mahendranath. “Let me talk to them,” Mahendranath offered. He called the boys to his side and said, “I will ask you a question. Think carefully before you answer. Whoever gives the correct answer will earn ten rupees.”

The boys nodded in agreement. Mahendranath continued, “Suppose God were to appear before you and ask what you wish for to lead a happy life. What will you choose?”

The elder boy replied, “If I could have a fertile piece of land, I would lead a contented life.”

The younger boy said, “I don’t want any land that I will have to toil over. Instead, if I can get a magic ring, I will put it to good use.”

Mahendranath turned to his friend Jagannath and said, “When the time comes, you may give the elder one your house and the land around it. He will stay here and prosper. Don’t worry about the younger one; he will thrive wherever he goes.”

He then handed the younger boy ten rupees and added, “Come with me; I will help you find some work.”