The Incident Leading to Elevated Walls
Because of a particular incident, Krishna’s parents decided to elevate the walls of their house in the village. This incident happened when Baby Krishna, who was no more than 5 years old, woke up in the wee hours post-midnight due to a dream.
Krishna’s Euphoria and Journey
In a state of euphoria, Krishna got out of his bed without disturbing anyone, climbed the not-so-tall boundary wall of the cottage, and started walking. He was heading towards another village about a mile away. He was neither fully awake nor dreaming, but in a state of delirium, desperate to reach the object of his pursuit.
The Encounter with Radha
Krishna reached the village and saw Radha, who was around 8 years old, playing with her friends in the outskirts. In that unique state, Krishna found what he was looking for and what had made him cross the risky woods alone. Radha noticed Krishna and walked towards him.
Radha: You have come alone?
Krishna (in a childish voice): Yes.
Radha: Why?
Krishna: They would not let me.
Radha: And why don’t they let you?
Krishna: They think I am a child.
Radha: Are you not one?
Krishna: No. I am big. I know that in my dream. You are also there in my dream. We live in a faraway land where there are lotuses all around us. There, we live together, and I am taller than you. And we do everything together…
Radha (teasingly): What things?
The shy Krishna looked away.
Radha: Do you love me?
Krishna (not looking in Radha’s eyes): More than my life.
Radha picked the child Krishna in her arms as one would their child and kissed his chubby cheeks, which turned red like a girl who blushes.
Embarrassed, Krishna whispered, “You are my goddess of beauty and joy.”
Moral of the Story
This story illustrates the pure and innocent love that Krishna had for Radha, even as a child. It shows that love transcends age and circumstances, and true love is about caring and being there for each other, regardless of what others think.
Lessons to be Learned
- Innocent Love:
- The love between Krishna and Radha, even at a young age, shows that true love is pure and innocent, free from the complications and doubts that often plague adult relationships.
- Determination:
- Krishna’s determination to reach Radha, despite the risks and obstacles, teaches us the importance of perseverance and dedication in pursuit of what we hold dear.
- Bravery:
- Krishna’s journey through the risky woods alone at night demonstrates bravery and the strength that love can give us.
- Unconditional Love:
- Radha’s loving acceptance of Krishna, regardless of his childlike state, shows that unconditional love accepts and cherishes without expecting anything in return.
- Respecting Others’ Feelings:
- The way Radha lovingly teases Krishna but also respects his feelings shows the importance of understanding and respecting the emotions of those we care about.
Reflection
The story of Krishna and Radha’s childhood love reminds us of the timeless and boundless nature of true love. It is a love that is selfless, pure, and unwavering, inspiring us to seek and cherish such love in our own lives.
Prayer
Let us pray for the grace to experience and embody the pure, selfless love that Krishna and Radha shared:
“O Supreme Lord Krishna, guide us to love with the purity and devotion that You and Radha shared. Help us to persevere in our pursuits, to be brave in the face of challenges, and to love unconditionally and selflessly. May we always cherish and respect the feelings of those we love.”
