The Bare Happinness

On that day, I was sleeping after a long spell of enjoyment outdoors, riding as a passenger on a KSRTC bus. Now, the time is 7 o'clock, and a man shook me awake. I woke up in astonishment upon hearing "Perinthalmanna." The resounding announcements of the conductor compelled me to disembark from the bus. There was an image that captivated my gaze, featuring a vibrant sunrise in the city's sky. A refreshing morning breeze embraced me, infusing me with the energy to move forward.

Perinthalmanna is technically one of the most developed cities in the MLP district, with numerous buildings reaching toward the sky. I stepped off the bus and began walking along the walkway. Upon reaching the zebra crossing, it was quite imposing! The cacophony of honking horns was overwhelming; I could observe shopkeepers hastening to lower their shutters. They were ready to serve others their morning tea, while foreign workers took their initial sips, navigating the bustling crowd. I found it nearly impossible to take a step.

I was en route to college, but I was already running late. My eyes scanned the approaching Cherpulassery-bound buses that zoomed past me, announcing their destinations as "Cherpulassery, Cherpulassery." Suddenly, a vibration jolted me, whispering in my ears that I had missed yet another bus. That fear spurred me to quicken my pace.

Joggers were visible, struggling to catch their breath, while people around me fixed their gazes upon me. The iPod generation seemed indifferent to others' issues, absorbed in their gadgets. All of a sudden, I spotted a man aimlessly wandering through the city, searching for something. I deduced that he was alone, unnoticed by anyone. Like others, I also proceeded forward.

Out of nowhere, a man pulled me back, wearing a smile and conveying something different. He saluted and greeted me. Secretly, I sized him up from head to toe. He appeared well-dressed and charming. He confided, "I had studied in Valiyanccode Dars," murmuring words that weren't new. "I was compelled to leave due to memory inefficiency. Now, I'm struggling with my studies." Then he posed a question, "Could you spare some money for a coffee? I only have ten rupees left, which I used as bus fare."

At that moment, the Quranic verses echoed in my mind, "As for the beggar, do not repel." Without hesitation, I handed him the money. Immediately, I noticed a beautiful smile, revealing a gap between his teeth, and he blessed me, saying, "You will receive great blessings." He hurried to the coffee shop, and I observed the happiness on his face. My gaze remained fixed on him as he savoured the coffee's aroma.

With each sip he took, I could almost taste the flavour. It was as if dormant scents had sprung to life after hibernating through the winter, releasing a multitude of soothing sensations in every corner of my mind. I realized that true happiness emerges when we aid others, relieving them of their burdens, and in doing so, God brings us even more joy.

Had I spent that money to buy myself a coffee, it wouldn't have brought as much joy as I felt when he drank it. By assisting others, we not only help them but also benefit ourselves.