DEEPAN MUKHERJEE

Once upon a time there was a rich King who had four wives. He lovedthe 4th wife the most and adorned her with rich robes and treated herto the finest of delicacies. He gave her nothing but the best.He also loved the 3rd wife very much and was always showing her off toneighboring kingdoms. However, he feared that one day she would leavehim for another.He also loved his 2nd wife. She was his confidant and was always kind,considerate and patient with him. Whenever the King faced a problem,he could confide in her, and she would help him get through thedifficult times.The King's 1st wife was a very loyal partner and had made greatcontributions in maintaining his wealth and kingdom. However, he didnot love the first wife. Although she loved him deeply, he hardly tooknotice of her !One day, the King fell ill and he knew his time was short. He thoughtof his luxurious life and wondered, "I now have four wives with me,but when I die, I'll be all alone."Thus, he asked the 4th wife, "I have loved you the most, endowed youwith the finest clothing and showered great care over you. Now thatI'm dying, will you follow me and keep my company?" "No way!", repliedthe 4th wife, and she walked away without another word. Her answer cutlike a sharp knife right into his heart.The sad King then asked the 3rd wife, "I have loved you all my life.Now that I'm dying, will you follow me and keep my company?" "No!",replied the 3rd wife. "Life is too good! When you die, I'm going toremarry!" His heart sank and turned cold.He then asked the 2nd wife, "I have always turned to you for help andyou've always been there for me. When I die, will you follow me andkeep my company?" "I'm sorry, I can't help you out this time!",replied the 2nd wife. "At the very most, I can only walk with you toyour grave." Her answer struck him like a bolt of lightning, and theKing was devastated.Then a voice called out: "I'll go with you. I'll follow you no matterwhere you go." The King looked up, and there was his first wife. Shewas very skinny as she suffered from malnutrition and neglect.Greatly grieved, the King said, "I should have taken much better careof you when I had the chance!"
In truth, we all have the 4 wives in our lives:Our 4th wife is our body. No matter how much time and effort we lavishin making it look good, it will leave us when we die.
Our 3rd wife is our possessions, status and wealth. When we die, itwill all go to others.
Our 2nd wife is our family and friends. Nomatter how much they have been there for us, the furthest they canstay by us is up to the grave.
And our 1st wife is our Soul. Often neglected in pursuit of wealth,power and pleasures of the world. However, our Soul is the only thingthat will follow us wherever we go.Cultivate, strengthen and cherish it now, for it is the only part ofus that will follow us to the throne of God and continue with usthroughout Eternity.
Thought for the day:Remember, when the world pushes you to your knees, you're in theperfect position to pray.