Acceptance in the Eyes — A Morning at Kedarnath
"When I started this work, I couldn’t even lift much weight. I’m poor. I don’t eat well or exercise. If I’m now able to carry 70 kg all the way to the Mandir, it’s only because of Mahadev’s blessings. I’m a nobody." It was 4:30 AM. We had completed our darshan of Mahadev the evening before, and having woken up early, I had little to do. I stepped out for a walk along the temple street when a porter approached me, offering his services to carry me either down to Gaurikund or the short distance up to Kedarnath Mandir. “I’m still fit,” I told him, smiling. “I walked up yesterday and can easily manage the downhill walk.” “Aap ko kam mein kar denge, sir. Hamara boni ho jaayega. Karlo na.” His eyes were kind, and the way he pleaded made me feel guilty for being fit enough to not need his help. “Nahin yaar,” I said gently. “Ek time aayega jab hum aapke services ke laayak ho jaayenge. Tab zaroor aapka grahak banenge.” I really didn’t know how else to say no to his sincere offer....