Once there was a grand Svayamvara for Lakshmi, the goddess of fortune. Her father had decided it was time for her to get married, and the news spread far and wide. In those days, a Svayamvara was an occasion where a bride would select her husband from among a gathering of suitors.
It was a grand event, and princes and noblemen from all over the planet arrived, each hoping to be chosen by Lakshmi. They came dressed in their finest clothes, adorned with jewels, crowns, and turbans, all seated on grand chairs, eagerly waiting for Lakshmi to appear with the garland.
Lakshmi, however, had her own plan. She decided that she would marry the person who did not show a desire to have her. As she stepped into the hall, all the suitors eagerly bowed their heads, hoping she would choose them.
Amidst the crowd, Krishna stood out. He was not seated on a chair with the others. Instead, he was sitting under a tree, playing his flute, dressed simply as a cowherd, without any ornaments or regal attire. He seemed completely uninterested in the proceedings.
Lakshmi noticed Krishna and thought, “He is the one for me because he does not desire me for my fortune.” Without hesitation, she walked past all the other suitors and garlanded Krishna.
Moral of the story:
Fortune and bliss follow naturally when you are with Krishna. As soon as Krishna is in your life, “shrayata indiraa shashvad atra hi” – Lakshmi always resides near you.
In our pursuit of material wealth (Lakshmi), we often forget that true prosperity comes from devotion to Narayana (Krishna). Lakshmi cannot stay without Narayana. By focusing on Krishna, fortune and happiness will naturally come to us.
The gopis of Vrindavan provide the perfect example of this devotion. They sing to Krishna, begging for His presence, dedicating their entire lives to Him. Their senses are entirely devoted to Krishna – their eyes, ears, hands, everything.
This is the way to draw closer to Krishna, and as soon as you get near Him, you are filled with joy and contentment. Use your life wisely to reach this state of devotion and nearness to Krishna.
Hare Krishna, Hare Krishna, Krishna Krishna, Hare Hare Hare Rama, Hare Rama, Rama Rama, Hare Hare.
PS: I humbly request all the devotees to please forward and share these moral and instructive stories they hear so that everyone can benefit by hearing about Krishna and his dear devotees.
