Gajendra’s Lesson in Respect
Setting: The Lush Jungles of Dvārakā
In the heart of the lush jungles of Dvārakā, there lived a wise and mighty elephant named Gajendra. Gajendra was not just any elephant; he was the king of the jungle, respected and admired by all the creatures. He had a young son named Ganesha, curious and playful.
Ganesha’s Misunderstanding
One sunny day, while Gajendra was teaching Ganesha about the jungle, Ganesha noticed that all animals, big and small, bowed down to his father. This made Ganesha wonder, “If everyone respects father because he is so big and strong, does that mean bigger creatures are more important?”
Gajendra, sensing his son’s thoughts, decided it was time to teach Ganesha an important lesson in respect.
The Gathering of Animals
Gajendra called for a gathering of all the animals. The tiny ants, the swift deer, the colorful birds, and even the slow-moving tortoises arrived. Ganesha watched in awe as all the jungle’s inhabitants came together.
The Lesson Begins
Gajendra spoke, “Dear friends, my son Ganesha here wonders if being big and strong makes someone more important. Today, I want to teach him a lesson that I’ve learned from Lord Krishna’s teachings.”
He then turned to Ganesha, “Son, each creature here, no matter how big or small, strong or weak, is a part of Lord Krishna. We are all connected to Him, just like different parts of the same body.”
The Story of Krishna and Sudama
To illustrate his point, Gajendra told the story of Krishna and Sudama. Sudama was a humble and poor friend of Lord Krishna. Despite being a king, Krishna treated Sudama with utmost respect and love, showing that in His eyes, everyone is equal, as all are His parts and parcels.
Ganesha’s Understanding
Ganesha listened intently. He looked around and saw the variety of animals, each unique and different. He realized that his earlier belief was mistaken. It wasn’t the size or strength that mattered, but the fact that every creature was a part of Krishna.
“Father,” Ganesha said, “I understand now. We should respect everyone, not because of their size or power, but because they are all part of Krishna, just like us.”
Gajendra’s Approval
Gajendra smiled, pleased with his son’s understanding. “Yes, Ganesha. When we respect all life, we honor Krishna, for He resides in every heart. Disrespecting any creature is like disrespecting Krishna Himself.”
The Moral
The story of “Gajendra’s Lesson in Respect” teaches us that every living being is connected to Lord Krishna. We should respect all, not based on their external appearance or abilities, but because they are part of the divine creation of Krishna. This respect is pleasing to Krishna and is a sign of true understanding of His teachings.
Epilogue
Ganesha grew up to be a wise elephant, just like his father. He treated all creatures with kindness and respect, remembering the lesson he learned that day. The jungle of Dvārakā remained a place of harmony and peace, a testament to the wisdom passed down from Gajendra, a true devotee of Lord Krishna.