The oil pot on the head

Slowing down and enjoying the journey of life is as important as achieving the goals of life, says Vanisha Uppal

- Vanisha Uppal

My grandfather was a self-made and successful businessman. He was also the backbone of our big joint family. Every day after dinner, he used to go for a long walk, really long…and I accompanied him sometimes for the ice-cream on the way back. While walking, he often narrated his future plans, “I will soon retire and hand over the business to your father and uncle. Then I will buy a farmhouse to grow fresh vegetables and fruits, or I might buy some land in the mountains and stay peacefully there for the rest of my life.” But, business and family tension kept him occupied and after 10 years he suddenly died. Despite wanting so much to retire, why did he not do so?

The effortless effort

Narad was a celestial sage. For many years he meditated on the mountains and in the jungle. One day after great penance he boastfully said to Lord Vishnu, “I am your greatest devotee in the three worlds because I never lose focus on you, not even for a minute.” Lord Vishnu put him to a test. He asked him to take a full circle around the mountain carrying a pot of oil over his head. The condition was to not drop the pot and spill the oil.

Narad took upon the challenge and after much difficulty, he managed to complete it. He happily returned to lord Vishnu, again bragging about his success. God congratulated him and then asked, “How many times did you remember me in the middle of this job?” Narad realised, not even once.