Compassion: a path to get a lot from a little

Long back I got an opportunity to work at a school for disabled children. It was one of the most rewarding things I've done - with so little effort to uplift their spirits, I was much rewarded by their good will, all through my life. I learnt to be more patient, undemanding, loving and caring for others in life. Unnoticed by the mainstream of life, those children blossomed like a bunch of wild flowers. They were happy with so little loving kindness from others. They laughed, danced and exchanged emotions through their sign language. Hearing impaired children had great concentration that they used beautifully for creative activities. In today’s world, when everyone is so focused on getting ahead for fame or fortune, those children stood apart. Their attitude of gratitude brought sunshine in every interaction. Later when I volunteered with orphan children, I saw the same graceful, undemanding nature among them. Away from home, they made the orphanage a loving nest for each other. Life flows like a river. At every turn, it creates new experiences, new thoughts and attitudes. Now I have reached my ripe old age and am blessed to be surrounded with a few loving souls. One of them is Gujia, a three legged elderly stray dog. Long back, one leg was crushed by a careless driver, and luckily rescued and treated by an organisation, he finally he came to me to becomee my silent soulful companion. The second, is a lovely little kitten, we call her Ladoo. After losing her parents and siblings, she chose our garden as her new home. My animal lover son has flooded her with attractive toys, tasty foods and comfortable beds. She is the darling of the house. She loves to accompany me on my morning walks and sits under my chair when I solve sudoku or read the newspaper. Gujia and Ladoo respect each other and keeping a safe distance, never to step into each other’s domain. My two maids (one with a young boy) are excellent in taking care of me. They are also brave souls, facing life’s challenges with courage and dignity. I see the same light of courage in their faces. I thank them all to make my golden years really golden. As the Dalai Lama said, “ If you want others to be happy, practice compassion. If YOU want to be happy, practice compassion “.