The Story of the Glassware Seller
There was a person who lived in a town and wanted to start a business. After much thought and planning, he decided to start a glassware business. He bought glassware from the wholesale market and sold it at the local weekly markets for a small profit.
Initially, he bought glassware for 10 rupees and sold it for 15 rupees. Gradually, he earned up to 2000 rupees. One day, while walking to the weekly market with the glassware on his head, he felt tired due to the summer heat. He decided to rest under a banyan tree, placing the glassware underneath his legs, and soon fell asleep.
The Dream
In his dream, he saw himself earning more money and opening a large glassware factory. He imagined marrying a nice wife, having two kids, and becoming prosperous. One day, in his dream, he had a great fight with his wife and, in anger, kicked her out of the house. As he acted out this anger in his sleep, he kicked the glassware underneath him, breaking it all.
The Aftermath
When he woke up, he saw all his glassware shattered and realized that he had lost not only the glassware but also the money he had earned to pay back for the broken glassware.
Moral of the Story
This story highlights the folly of excessive planning and attachment to material gains. Just as the glassware seller lost everything due to his misguided dreams and actions, we too can lose sight of what truly matters when we become overly engrossed in material planning and desires.
Lessons to be Learned
- Folly of Excessive Planning:
- The glassware seller’s excessive planning and dreaming about material success led to his downfall. It teaches us the importance of balanced and realistic planning without becoming overly attached to the outcome.
- Attachment to Material Gains:
- Becoming too attached to material possessions and desires can lead to disappointment and loss. The story reminds us to maintain a sense of detachment and focus on spiritual goals.
- Unpredictability of Life:
- Life is unpredictable, and no amount of planning can ensure complete control over the future. We should be prepared for unforeseen circumstances and trust in the divine plan.
- Mindfulness and Awareness:
- The story emphasizes the need to be mindful and aware of our actions and their consequences. Being present in the moment can prevent careless mistakes and help us make better decisions.
- Importance of Spiritual Focus:
- The ultimate lesson is to prioritize spiritual goals over material pursuits. Engaging in devotional practices and focusing on our relationship with the Supreme Lord can bring lasting fulfillment and peace.
Reflection from Srimad Bhagavatam
The story reminds us of a verse from Srimad Bhagavatam (4.24.66):
pramattam uccair iti kritya-cintaya pravrddha-lobham visayeshu laalasam tvam apramattah sahasaabhipadyase kshul-lelihano ‘hir ivaakhum antakah
“My dear Lord, all living entities within this material world are mad after planning for things, and they are always busy with a desire to do this or that. This is due to uncontrollable greed. The greed for material enjoyment is always existing in the living entity, but Your Lordship is always alert, and in due course of time You strike him, just as a snake seizes a mouse and very easily swallows him.”
Conclusion
The story of the glassware seller teaches us the dangers of excessive material planning and the importance of focusing on spiritual growth. By maintaining a balanced approach to life and prioritizing our relationship with the Supreme Lord, we can achieve true happiness and fulfillment.
Prayer
Let us pray for the wisdom to focus on spiritual goals and avoid becoming overly attached to material desires:
“O Supreme Lord Krishna, guide us to balance our material pursuits with spiritual growth. Help us to maintain mindfulness and awareness in our actions and to trust in Your divine plan. May we always prioritize our relationship with You and find true peace and fulfillment.”
Hare Krishna, Hare Krishna, Krishna Krishna, Hare Hare Hare Rama, Hare Rama, Rama Rama, Hare Hare.
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