Duty and God: Shri Adisankarar explains

"Some say that life is better with devotion, temple and prayers. But some others say, there is no good or evil; what has to happen will happen. So, which is right?"

Once while Sri Adisankarar was on his way through a village, he saw a poor farmer who asked him the same question. Adisankarar said to him, "Son, help me to cross the stream here. I will answer you!"

He stepped on to the single palm bridge across the stream and walked holding a bamboo pole on the side. Adisankarar also crossed the bridge holding the stick and thanked him after getting across safely. To which he replied, "What do you thank me for? It is this wooden bridge that you must thank for crossing the stream."

"Oh! so if this bridge was enough to get across safely, what do you think is the purpose of the bamboo pole?" asked Adisankarar in return.

"While crossing the wooden bridge, if you suddenly slip, the bamboo pole is what you hold on to, Swami!" answered the farmer.

"That's the answer to your question! Only if everyone walks on the bridge of his labor can he reach a better place. If something goes wrong, you must hold on to the feet of the almighty just like you hold on to the pole!" said Adisankarar.

One who journeys with God in one hand, duty in the other, always prevails. God is not only the one who gives us boons when worshipped but also the one we must lean on when in trouble. That is why our ancestors have said "Express your grief, even if to a stone!"

So, make God your pal in this journey called life!