Thoughtful Story: Pursuit of Happiness

Pursuit of Happiness

"Pursuit of happiness varies from one person to another. You might believe attainment of worldly treasures as path of happiness but in reality a true happiness is different from what you believe. The following thoughtful story is just a small effort to bring you the truth." 

A huge crowd gathered before Lord Vishnu. Sitting on His throne, the Lord was distributing wealth of the three worlds. He had vowed not to return any person empty- handed. He was liberally giving wealth and riches, offspring, power and luxuries, name and fame to the people. Goddess Lakshmi was worried over the emptying treasure of Vaikuntha (Lord Vishnu’s heaven) and she immediately went to Lord Vishnu and clutching His hand, she said ,”O Lord! What are you doing? 

If you continue to give away the wealth so liberally, soon nothing will be left in the Vaikuntha. Thus, all our comfort will be lost.” With a slight smile Vishnu said,” There is no need to be worried about this. Our happiness will remain as ever, even if we give away all our wealth and riches.” Astonished Lakshmi asked,” How My Lord? You have given away everything.” 

Vishnu said,” Yes, even after giving all the things, we will be left with the most valuable treasure kinners, Vidyadharas (supernatural being attendant of Lord Shiva) and demons and it is safe with us. This is such a treasure, which creates wealth and riches on its own and if we lack this treasure, then there is no meaning to the wealth, riches, name and fame.” Lakshmi said,” Please Lord don’t talk in riddles. Tell me, what it is,” Vishnu said,” That treasure is contentment. Wealth, riches, power and luxuries have no meaning without contentment,” Lakshmi was satisfied with Vishnu’s advice and said, “Yes Lord you are right. Now I am care-free.”