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36
THE WAY OF LIFE
river sailing on a bamboo-raft. Now, let us pray to God to keep Ayyu's family safe". Gulla took up a bamboo-raft; and proceeded towards Ayyu's house. The whole area was covered with violent floods. He had to go sailing against the current. His heart was overflowing with cordiality and concern for Ayyu's family. He risked his life and sailed forth.
Ayyu was not at home at that time. Two days ago, he had gone to the nearby town. Only, Ayyu's wife and his two small children were in the house. When water rushed into the house they went up to the roof of the house. They were in great anguish. Helplessly, they were appealing to the Almighty for succour. They were shouting aloud for help. Ayyu's wife noticed at a distance someone coming towards them on a bamboo-raft. On seeing this, she was greatly delighted and relieved.
Gulla reached the place. Ayyu's wife saw Gulla. Ayyu's wife was scared to see him. Gulla shouted aloud in the midst of the tumult, "Sister, I am a friend of yours; not an enemy. Please come and sit in this boat. Let me repay my debt of gratitude to my master". Just when Gulla brought Ayyu's family to the bank of the river, Ayyu also came there. Ayyu found his family alive and safe. Ayyu's wife said to him, "We can never forget Gulla's help. He saved our lives risking his own life".
Ayyu and Gulla looked at each other with overflowing love. They embraced each other with heartfelt joy. They became true friends. The people of the village built a new house for Ayyu.
Have you understood how Ayyu conducted himself in the pilgrimage of his life?
If not, understand these points :
1. Ayyu did not repeat his father's blunders.
2. Ayyu understood the minds of the people. "The people of the village are hostile towards me. I must somehow remove that hostility". He made this determination.
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