________________
The Conquest of the World
331
and princes whom we have subjugated are desirous of meeting you and receiving his blessings. If you permit me, we will bring them in." As soon as Sita gave her consent, Lav made a sign to Vajrajang. All the Kings and princes who were waiting to see Sita were brought in. They saluted Sita and felt blessed. Sita blessed them heartily and went into an inner chamber followed by her daughters-in-law.
This was the second memorable day of joyful occurrence in Sita's life. The first one was when she was brought back to Ayodhya after the destruction of Ravan. For a few moments, she was immersed in reminiscences. At that time she was only a wife but now she was a mother-in-law.
The wheel of time continued to revolve.
Sita was spending her time joyfully in the company of her sons and daughters-in-law. She was always thoughtful regarding the comforts and joys of her daughters-in-law. She always saw that they did not feel the absence of any comfort or joy. She bestowed upon them her heartfelt affection and love, and they too loved and honoured her greatly. Sita's life which had been darkened by dense clouds of calamities again was brightened by new rays of joy and jubilation. She spent her time joyfully taking care of her family. She enjoyed the love and affection of her sons and daughters-in-law. They also enjoyed the love and honour of King Vajrajang and the people of King Pundarikanagar.
Life comprises scorching heat and cool shadows.
Life comprises dreadful venom as well as the nectar of felicity.
Joy and woe are woven into the garland of life.
But the cool shadows do not last long. In human life, joys are short-lived but long periods of scorching heat appear in life. Man throughout his life has to experience inordinate agony and anguish. The nectar of felicity falls now and then sweetening human life but it is always rendered bitter by the venom of
Jain Education International
For Private & Personal Use Only
www.jainelibrary.org
