Question

Imagine that you are the fellow pilgrim and you wish to share your experience of the incident in the poem.
Write a short article about it for a magazine/journal. Also, convey what change it has brought in your life.

Answer 1

THE TURNING POINT

There are certain incidents in one's life which have an impact on a person and prove to be a turning point in their lives. Let me narrate the incident which shook me awake.

I was on a hike in some hilly places when I had to cross a deep ravine which had a gushing river flowing through it. I managed to cross without any difficulty; to my surprise, an old man ahead of me also crossed it nimbly. As I was about to continue on my way, I saw the old man turn back and build a rough bridge across the water. It took a lot of effort and I stood by wondering. Finally, I asked him, “Sir, it is late evening, and you are not likely to cross this way again. Why are you building a bridge now?”

The old man's answer floored me. “You confused child,” he said with a smile. “I have completed my journey - true. But behind me is a young boy who is inexperienced. He will soon reach this chasm, and he may have difficulty in crossing it. I am building this bridge to help him.”

I stood still, amazed at the generosity and unselfishness of the old man, who was putting in the time and effort to help someone he did not even know. He was building a bridge that he would never ever cross. This incident left an indelible mark · on my mind. Since that time, I always try to help others, even though it may not be beneficial to me in any way. However, it gives me something immeasurable - peace and happiness. Try it out, won't you?