My Inspiration: Mrs. Suvidya Bodake Madam

 On the 1st of August, the day began with a storm, both in the skies and in my schedule. I had a supervision duty for the makeup exam from 4 pm to 6 pm, and the rain poured relentlessly throughout the day, drenching the world outside and soaking my spirit with its persistence. After wrapping up my duties, I started for home around 6:15. Before setting off, I called my son, promising him I’d be home within 20 minutes. His voice bubbled with joy as he shared his excitement—he had won a prize in a school quiz. His only request was a simple one: sweet corn.

I agreed, and with the rain drumming a steady rhythm on my helmet, I began my journey home. The raincoat I wore was no match for the downpour, and by the time I reached Shantiniketan corner, I was drenched and weary. At that corner, an elderly woman and her middle-aged son sold sweet corn, their presence a small beacon of warmth in the cold, wet evening. My son was fond of the way they seasoned the corn, so I often bought it from them.

I removed my helmet, feeling the fatigue etched on my face, and asked for two corns—one for my son and one for myself. My husband had messaged that he would be late, caught up in his work, so it would be just the two of us for dinner. As the old woman packed the corns, her son noticed the exhaustion in my eyes. “You’re late today and look tired,” he observed, then added, “Join us for tea.” His mother, sensing the chill in the air and perhaps in my heart, chimed in, “It’s cold tonight, and we’re making tea. Why not share a cup with us?”

Their unexpected kindness struck a chord deep within me. To them, I was just another customer, yet they showed a concern that transcended transactions—a simple, pure humanity that left me momentarily speechless. Although my heart was touched, I politely declined their offer, aware that the tea was likely just enough for the two of them. But they insisted, urging me to share just a little warmth with them. Their generosity, small as it seemed, left me feeling profoundly moved and grateful.

The incident was a powerful reminder of the profound impact that humanity, empathy, and genuine connection can have. It made me realize that those who may have little in material wealth often possess hearts as vast as the ocean, willing to share what they have, even when it’s not in abundance. Their kindness made me reflect on the unnecessary competition, jealousy, hatred, and stress that so often consume those of us who consider ourselves more privileged. In that moment, I felt a deep sense of shame, understanding that true richness lies not in what we have, but in how we treat one another.

When I reached home, I shared the incident with my son. His eyes widened with understanding, and he immediately responded, "Mumma, how caring those people are. Because they were so kind to you, I hope they sell all their corn today." His innocent wish filled my heart with warmth, reminding me once again of the simple yet profound beauty of compassion.

Friends, humanity is contagious. Let's strive to be human first, before chasing success, wealth, or riches in life. Compassion and kindness are the true measures of our worth!!