Monks Dilemma

Author(s): S M Jain
Publisher: ABD Publisher

Page 5

Monks' Dilemma
Deepti, "I have booked a taxi. I shall reach your hostel at 6 a.m. sharp.
Deepak, "I shall be ready well in time".
ONE
Deepti was excited and elated. She got her first ever fat salary. She planned a picnic to some far off hill station just this week end. She preferred Ooty. She consulted Deepak on phone, "Deepak, I am really very delighted to have freedom to spend as much as I like from the salary I have received for the first time in life. I have decided that we would go to some hill station this week end. I shall prefer Ooty."
Deepak, "I like your proposal. But you are aware that I am engrossed in a very important project which has to be completed within this fortnight. The management has put entire responsibility on me. I am going to office even on weekends and other holidays."
Deepak reflected on his association with Deepti. They first met after their first semester examination results in which Deepak stood first and Deepti was second. They both congratulated each other. Thereafter they met frequently in the college canteen, library and on the campus. They often met to discuss problems, and exchanged notes. They did not even realise when their acquaintance got transformed into friendship and a sort of relationship of love and affection for each other. Deepti possessed every asset that would attract any sensible young man. She was beautiful, fair, well built and slim with sharp features and long black hair. She was exuberant and effusive, simple and straightforward, intelligent and strong willed. She would carry any one with her by her logic. He was however surprised as to what made her infatuated with him. He was very much reserved as compared with her. His only asset was his diligence and sincerity in his studies and work. He felt that he benefitted more by her company and that she must be a loser. He always felt very much relaxed in her scintillating company. Their friendship progressed smoothly and uninterrupted. On weekends they would often dine together. None of them was selfish at all. They cared for each other. There was no feeling of competition also; rather they cooperated in studies and helped each other. Both enjoyed the relationship.
Deepti arrived at Deepak's hostel at 6.a.m. sharp. Deepak was already waiting on the road side in front of the hostel.
Deepti, "It is my earnest request. There should not be any excuse this time. I have been observing for the last few weeks that you are exerting too much and getting weaker . Your face is turning pale. You are ignoring health which is not good. I shall not allow this to happen. I assure that the week end picnic would refresh and rejuvenate you. Your efficiency would increase and you would be able to work on the project faster and better."
Deepak, "I shall request the CEO and I shall let you know."