A Short Chat

Mishraji was at a paan wala buying tobacco, Rolling papers and a bunch of lighters. 

He was lost in his thoughts when his neighbour, Sharmaji tapped him on the shoulder and said, “Mishraji, I did not know that you smoked.” 

Mishraji turned around and said “Oh Sharmaji, how are you? No no, I don’t smoke. These are for my son. He is unwell so thought I would get his stock for him. He has been down with a sprained ankle and cannot walk much.” 

Sharmaji was very surprised and said “Mishraji, it is unheard of, for a father to buy smoking supplies for his son. In our day, a son could never let his parents know that he smokes let alone smoke in front of them.” 

“Hahaha” laughed Mishraji, “Times have changed. Today we are friendlier with our children than our parents were ever with us. And it should be so. Each generation gets more progressive than the earlier one. It is a good sign. One should move with the times and not get stuck in the ways of the past” said Mishraji. 

Sharmaji nodded, “Yes, but there are ways of the past that should not be forgotten. Respecting your elders, serving them, maintaining a certain decorum in society, these have to be there otherwise society will go to the dogs.” 

“That is true Sharmaji, and all these will be there in a youngster if his parents have bothered to give him an upbringing in his formative years. Taking time out of one’s busy schedule for one’s children to teach them manners, values, etiquette, respect, compassion is very important towards the growth of the child. Ultimately though, he will get what is meant for him” said Mishraji. 

“Very true” said Sharmaji, “life provides the necessary nutrients, and if the soil is fertile, there will be a rich harvest. We can only pray that the current generation finds their way out of the materialistic lifestyles that they have gotten so addicted to. Even young children pester their parents for mobile phones today.” 

“That is to be expected” said Mishraji, “In our time, we wanted radios. hahaha. The gadgets may have changed, but the desires are still the same. But yes, we must pray for a life of moderation for the next generation so that they do not end up over saturated and paupers. They MUST know moderation in everything. Life offers pleasures and the one who is not at their mercy is the true winner.” 

“Very well said” said Sharmaji, “on that note, I must take your leave.” 

“Good day then” said Mishraji and collected his purchases and walked homewards.

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