Swami Vivekananda’s Test

Swami Vivekananda was known for his deep knowledge of both Eastern and Western cultures. His powerful way of speaking and spiritual wisdom made him the perfect person to represent Hinduism at the World’s Parliament of Religions in Chicago in 1893.

The day before he left for America, his mother invited him for dinner. She lovingly prepared his favorite food. After dinner, she offered him a bowl of fruit along with a knife to cut it.

After Vivekananda finished eating, his mother asked,
“Son, can you please pass me the knife?”

Without thinking much, he handed the knife to his mother.

She smiled and said,
“Son, you have passed my test. You have my blessing for your journey.”

Vivekananda was surprised.
“What test, Mother?” he asked.

She replied,
“When I asked for the knife, you gave it to me by holding the sharp edge and pointing the handle towards me. That showed me you care more about others than yourself. A person who thinks of others’ safety and well-being is truly ready to share wisdom with the world.”

Moral:
Thinking of others and being kind is a powerful quality. The more selfless you are, the more blessings and love you receive from life.

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