STORY-AYYAPPA

STORY Our only daughter had to be taken to our family Doctor for a check up , because she had occasional memory loss . She may suddenly forget what she was doing . Sometimes she could not answer the teacher what was being taught .She was in her tenth class and her teacher called us to explain this. The Doctor examined her and advised consultation with specialists. After a series of tests , scanning etc. they came to the conclusion that it was a rare case of cancer. My wife began to cry. Of course , our daughter was not present when he disclosed this. “Madam , do not think that there is any immediate danger to her life. It is just the beginning . There has been many developments in this field. Be brave .” We decided to withdraw the girl from school. My wife began to coach her at home , as I was too busy in my work in a multinational company. We decided to keep this a secret and began the search for a boy for her. Brother-in-law had many contacts at home in Keralam . (We were in Delhi) My wife went home and soon the mission succeeded . The boy was a bit more aged, but had a big estate and was wealthy. They saw the girl and my daughter too liked him. I took leave for two weeks and the marriage took place without much fanfare. My wife remained there with my daughter as we had no house in Keralam. Exactly after one year I became a grandfather! This was a great relief for us . The new born was named Subhash. He had no defects and all were happy. My daughter continued to take medicines secretly . Now my wife decided to come back. After about seven months , I received this letter. “Dear Papa , My husband asked me what medicine I am taking . When I said it was for my mental health, his father became angry. ‘Why was this fact hidden from us?’, he asked. My husband too began ill treating me . It is intolerable here. Please take me home. Your loving daughter Renu.” So she was brought back. Then came a divorce notice . In the circumstances , we agreed and Renu became a grass widow. My grief was short lived. The boy became a source of joy. Our Doctor said the boy will not be affected by its mother’s illness in any way. My wife became a devotee of Lord Ayyappa . there is a temple in Noida. She used to take Renu and her son there daily . On Sundays I too would accompany them . Many Keralites come there . One young man became very much attached to the mother and son. He was unemployed . I arranged a job for him in my company. My wife said:”This boy is educated and well behaved. Shall we propose alliance with him?” “What is the hurry?” But he himself told us:“We are in love .” “Do you know about her illness?” “It is not her fault. I shall keep her happy . Her life is in Lord’s hands. We thanked Ayyappa ! ‘