Blog post from Prof. H. O. Srivastava

Prof. Dr. Sir H. O. Srivastava, IBS, K. St. J
M.Sc. M.Phil, Ph. D. (Info Sys.), Ph. D. (Chemistry), D. Lit. (Management)

The Woodcutter’s Dignity: A Childhood Lesson in the Value of Work and Faith
I remember an incident from my childhood in 1961 that left an indelible mark on my young mind. It was a rainy day when my mother asked me to fetch some dry firewood from the local woodcutter. Little did I know that this simple errand would provide me with a profound lesson in dignity, faith, and the value of honest work.
As I approached the woodcutter’s shop, I was greeted by an unexpected sight. There, in the dim light cast by a flickering kerosene burner, sat the woodcutter. Clad only in a loin cloth, he was deeply engrossed in reciting verses from the Ramayana, one of our holiest texts. His eyes were brimming with tears, a testament to the depth of his devotion.
Noticing my presence, he gestured for me to wait. I stood silently, watching as he finished his recitation with reverence. Only then did he rise, pick up his saw, and cut the wood I had come to purchase. As he handed me the firewood, I couldn’t help but notice his wife waiting patiently nearby, holding a simple meal of roti and onions for him.
What struck me most was the look in the woodcutter’s eyes. They shone with a unique radiance – a blend of pride in his hard labor, unwavering religious faith, and the pure glow of self-respect and honor. Here was a man who, despite his modest circumstances, carried himself with immense dignity.
In our modern world, where quick fixes and instant gratification are often glorified, perhaps we need to revisit such timeless values. The woodcutter’s shining eyes continue to inspire me, a beacon of what it means to live with honor, regardless of one’s situation in life. His example encourages us to cultivate our inner richness and find dignity in honest work and sincere beliefs.
In reflecting on this experience, I’m reminded of the importance of creating a society that values and rewards hard work, personal responsibility, and spiritual growth rather than enjoying the labor of someone else by way of Government support, freebies, and reservations for indefinite time which are the compulsion of political parties for winning the election. While it’s crucial to provide support for those in need, it’s equally important to inspire and empower individuals to develop their strengths and contribute meaningfully to their communities. Does any political party have a vision of cultivating a society that truly values and rewards hard work, personal responsibility, and individual growth? Is there a time frame for this?