One of a Kind

I never understood the phrase “Heaven on Earth” until I saw my paternal house in a small town near Mangalore. This house is just a few kilometers away from a small place called Aladangadi (Dakshina Kannada District, Karnataka, India). The beauty of this place is surreal. Many years back, my grandfather moved to this place which was a forest back then. He converted most of the forest land into farmland for agricultural purposes, to grow areca nut, and also built a small house in the same land.I was indeed lucky to listen to the various stories about my grandfather that my dad often shared. Grandpa considers every tree in that land as his own child. It not only reflects the amount of hard work but the love that has been invested to develop the vast area. Those were the years with no electricity and absolute zero transportation. Walking kilometers to reach the town for school or trade and managing household activities with immense difficulty, they have seen it all. But this never let their spirits down. The outstanding support from my grandmother in difficult times like these is what kept them going (even today). They say hardships only bring out the best in you. He is one of that kind. He is best described by two words-Discipline and Sincerity. Even today, his routine is what impresses me the most which include chanting mantras, reading newspaper, and eating light for a healthy body. He always makes sure he thanks the universe for whatever he has got and I think this is a very important lesson. He is a very knowledgeable person because of the immense reading he has been doing for the past fifty years. His body at 91 is not letting him do things of great value but the spirit never withers. Belief, support, and care are the pillars of his strong personality. He always stood up for the right things, created a wonderful example, and continues to be an inspiration for the generations to come. Forever grateful for your existence. Happy Father’s Day Grandpa :)!!!!!