And It Changed My Life - A Personal Experience

Sometimes, certain events have the power to profoundly transform our lives, altering our perspectives and prompting us to reflect on our choices and decisions. A few months ago, I had an experience that was just like that.

Source: Unknown

I was on the 4:12 pm fast train from Bandra, heading home from college on an ordinary day. Accompanied by my friends, we were fortunate enough to find seats as the train was not overcrowded. As the journey commenced, we began playing Antakshari, as we usually did.

When the train arrived at Andheri station, a group of women hurriedly boarded, among them, an elderly man in his eighties. Being pushed and jostled amidst the crowd, he held onto his small suitcase tightly. Some of the women grumbled, expressing their impatience with the old man's slow pace. In response, he humbly apologized, saying, "Sorry, Maaf kar dena madam" (Forgive me, madam).

As the train gradually gained momentum, the crowd settled down. Most of the women managed to find seats, while the remaining ones asked for the Borivali seats. The elderly man slowly settled near the door, opened his bag, and retrieved a half-filled water bottle, taking a sip to quench his thirst.

Then, he proceeded to take out various items from his bag, which had a torn handle. Among the items were small clips, safety pins, combs, and a walking stick. He was completely blind, frail, with no teeth in his mouth. His clothes were worn-out and soiled, consisting of a white shirt with holes and black pants slightly torn near his knee. He embarked on his sale.

"Safety Pin, 5 rupees for a bunch. Big comb, 15 rupees. Small comb, 10 rupees. A packet of clips for 10 rupees," he announced.

Photo by Balaji Srinivasan

Balancing himself with the aid of his walking stick and carrying the merchandise in his hand, he ventured through the compartment, occasionally struggling to maintain his balance when the train braked abruptly. Yet, he persevered, trying not to falter.

Some women instinctively moved away, fearing he might fall on them or touch them. Others purchased a few items from him. 

"This is a sales technique. Shopkeepers employ handicapped individuals like him to sell their wares, eliciting sympathy and encouraging people to make purchases," one woman whispered to her friend sitting beside me.

A woman retrieved a hundred rupee note from her purse and placed it in the blind man's hand.

"What did you buy, Madam?" he inquired.

"Nothing," she replied.

"Then, please forgive me, madam. I cannot accept this money," he graciously responded.

People stared at him in astonishment as he returned the money to her. He smiled and resumed his walk through the compartment, continuing his sales.

My friends and I observed the unfolding scene. As he approached our seats, one of my friends asked, "Chacha, aap aaram karne ki umar mein ye sab kyu bej rahe ho?” (Uncle, instead of resting at this age why are you selling stuff?)

He replied, "Aaram karunga tho pet kaise bharunga? Khaana khilane wala koi nahi hai. Ye kaam karunga tho chen se ek waqt ki roti tho kaa paunga. Mujhe kisise beekh nahi mangni hai. Bhagwaan ne haath pair diye hai. Jab tak ye chal rahe hai, main kaam karke kud ka khayal rak sakta hu ” 

(If I rest, then how will I be able to feed myself? I don’t have anyone to take care of me. At least if I work I will be able to eat one meal a day. I don’t want to go around and beg. God has given me hands and feet. As long as they are working, I will earn and take care of myself.)

Upon hearing his words, tears welled up in my friend's eyes. We decided to purchase items from him, not out of sympathy, but because we admired his resilience. Despite his advanced age and visual impairment, he possessed the courage and hope to earn a living and lead a meaningful life.

Often, we encounter young people begging on street corners or asking for money, yet when offered labor or job opportunities, they decline, unwilling to work hard and earn a living. They seek easy money.

However, individuals like the blind man we encountered exemplify a different mindset. They are determined to achieve despite all odds. Whether blind, unable to walk, or lacking hands, they face the world without complaints, displaying an unwavering resolve to make something of their lives.

Source: Pixabay

Meanwhile, many of us who are physically able and enjoy life's luxuries find ourselves grumbling about the slightest inconveniences. We are perpetually dissatisfied and fail to appreciate the blessings bestowed upon us by God. In stark contrast, those with very little express gratitude for everything they have.

This incident had a profound impact on my life, instilling in me a deep sense of gratitude for my own circumstances. On that day, I refrained from taking any pictures of the blind man. 

For those of you who may come across him or others like him who work diligently despite overwhelming obstacles, particularly in local trains, I implore you to extend a helping hand by purchasing something from them.

Together, we can contribute to making this world a better place to live.

Have you ever experienced a life-altering event? Share your stories in the comments section.