Narayanasramam

[Guest guest]

prathamavayasi datta & #7745; toyamalpa & #7745; smaranta & #7717;

& #347;irasi nihitabh & #257;r & #257; n & #257;rikel & #257; nar & #257; & #7751; & #257;m |

salilamam & #7771;takalpa & #7745; dadyur & #257;j & #299;van & #257;nta & #7745;

na hi k & #7771;tamupak & #257;ra & #7745; s & #257;dhavo vismaranti ||

- subh & #257; & #7779;itam

 

Translation:

Remembering the small amount of water which it was given in its early age, the

coconut trees carry nectar like water on their head throughout their life. [in

the same manner] good and noble people do not forget a favour done to them.

 

Points for Introspection:

This shloka instils in us the great virtue of gratitude – that one should fondly

remember any noble service done unto him by anybody anytime, feel grateful, and

also do some noble service in return. Even the thought of such a virtue makes

the mind soft and expanded.

Think of the coconut sapling. After planting it somebody had lovingly watered it

regularly for a period for its sustenance and growth. Remembering this kind act

of humans, the coconut when it grows tall, it caries on its head bunches of

fruits, each containing nectarine water. Throughout life it stands in sun and

rain, carrying the heavy load, without the least grumbling – never saying " I am

tired " , never wanting to get rid of the load, but ever-ready to offer lovingly

the fruits that contain the nectarine drink. To whom? To mankind, who poured

water on it when it was young, when that water was absolutely essential for its

survival and growth. Such hearts are noble hearts. A noble person never forgets

any benevolent service done to him. Chanting of this shloka would melt the heart

and generate aspiration to imbibe gratitude.