The Deeper Meaning Behind Our Struggles

Today, I received a call from an ex-colleague. As we spoke, she asked, “How’s Pune? How’s the new job treating you? Have you settled in?” I responded with a smile, “Everything is going great.” But as the conversation ended, I found myself reflecting on the last 2.5–3 months of my journey in Pune.

Was it easy? Have I truly settled? What has this journey really been about?

Amidst these thoughts, I was reminded of a fable my parents used to tell me:

Once upon a time, a bird worked tirelessly to build her nest. It was her dream home, crafted with love, effort, and patience. She and her family thrived, soaring high during the day, returning to their cozy haven at night. Days passed in bliss—until one evening, they came back to find their nest destroyed by a storm. Devastated, the bird cried out to the heavens, “Why, God? I toiled for this home, poured my heart into it. Why would you take it away?”

A voice responded, “A snake had crept into your nest. In your comfort, you failed to notice it. I destroyed your home to save your life.”

The bird, ashamed, bowed her head in gratitude. She had questioned the storm, not realizing it was her shield in disguise.

For many, this is just a story. But for me, it was a revelation.

My time in Pune hasn’t been without its struggles—moments of doubt, confusion, and emotional turmoil. But what turned these struggles into a journey of growth?

• Naam Jap – A powerful anchor that kept my mind from drifting into anxiety and fear.
• Listening to the Hanuman Chalisa – It gave me an unshakable strength. My difficulties didn’t disappear, but something greater always pushed me forward.
• Reading about the great warriors of Bharat – Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj, Putlabai, Veer Savarkar—along with the wisdom of the Bhagavad Gita—reminded me that my struggles are insignificant compared to theirs. If they remained undeterred, why should I waver?

My faith in myself and in God has been my guiding force. What seemed like hardships were, in hindsight, blessings shaping me into a stronger version of myself. The moral of the fable is clear—God often disrupts our comfort when unseen dangers lurk ahead. He tests us, not to break us, but to reveal our strength.

This has been my Pune journey so far - challenging, filled with ups and downs, even painful at times. But would I change any of it? Absolutely not.

My belief in God has only deepened, and for that, I am endlessly grateful. Thank you, Lord Vishnu and Lord Shiva, for always being by my side always.