Lord Shiva was in a conversation with his consort Parvati while his two sons Kartikeya and the chubby Ganesh were playing around.To make them quiet and not make noise,the father asked them to listen to what task he was going to give to both of them.
Lord Shiva in his playful yet wise manner offered a challenge to his sons.”whoever among you could circle the world three times and return first would be rewarded with a boon.”
The fierce and famous warrior Kartikeya immediately set off on a whirlwind tour around the world,mounting on his peacock.He was damn sure of his win,believing in his speed and strength.
On the other hand,Ganesh,the playful, simple yet wise, took a thoughtful approach.He mounted his mouse and went to his parents.He circled them three times saying,”as the world is within you and there is no circle greater than the love and wisdom that bind all of the creation…….”
On finishing his rounds he said ,dear father ,I have completed the task before big brother’s return.So I deserve the reward.”
Parvati was so elated by the wisdom of her elephant headed son , she immediately took him to her lap.The pride on her eyes was clearly visible.
Kartikeya returned proudly after completing his journey.He seemed quite happy and more handsome after completing his world tour within a span of few days.When he heard about Ganesh,he was shocked to find his little brother had already finished and was the winner.His brother’s approach made him laugh heartily.”Father ,how come you declare him the winner.What did the lazy one find circling you three times?I have witnessed the vast universe,It includes living things,planets,stars ,galaxies,dust clouds,light and what not?”
Mother Parvati intervened and comforted her handsome child.”Listen my dear son,your brother has won by his wisdom.What you saw and had gathered the unique experience, your little brother had found them in us.
In the persuit of greatness people show strength and speed.A deep understanding of the universe is the relationship that binds it.You both are the integral part of the cosmic cycle.Your strength and bravery are excellent and it complemented Ganesh’s wisdom and intellect.Day and night,light and darkness are two halves of the Whole in the endless circle of life.”
Lord Shiva smiled and asked his elder son to sit near him.Ganesh too sat near his brother.He actually missed him on his absence.
Kartikeya , by that time had realized the reason behind the victory of his simple little brother.It’s his wisdom and humility rather than the physical prowess.He himself had not yet understood the deeper values of wisdom and devotion.He understood his father’s intention behind the challenge.He learnt that his younger brother knew that raw strength and ego were not so important in life,he himself had failed to understand it.
He embraced Ganesh and said,”brother, we both started at the same time and from the same place.You reached earlier than me ,completing the full circle.”
