Velan was a carpenter in a village. His mother had died long back. His aged father, Kuppan, lived with him. He could not even walk well due to weakness since Velan did not give him enough food. Velan was a drunkard also. After taking drinks, he abused his father badly.
Velan had a 10 year old sun Muthu. He loved his grandfather and had great respect for him. He did not like his father’s attitude and character and cruel treatment given to his grandfather.
One day Kuppan was eating his food out of earthen plate that his son had given to him. The earthen plate along with food fell down and broke into pieces. Velan was very angry with his father and used very harsh words to abuse his father. The old man felt sorry for his mistake but Velan’s words wounded him very deeply.
Velan’s son, Muthu, saw all this but was afraid to speak against his father. He was really sad about his grandfather but was not powerful enough to support of his grandfather.
The next day Muthu took some of his father’s carpentry tools and a piece of wood. He worked with the tools to make a wooden plate. His father saw him working.
“What are you making, Muthu?” he asked. “I am making a wooden plate!” replied Muthu. “A wooden plate ! What for?” asked his father. “I am making it for you, father. When you grow old, like my grandfather, you will need a plate for food. A plate made from earth mat will break very easily. Then I may scold you severely. So, I want to give you a wooden plate which will not break very easily and you will be spared the scolding .” Velan was shocked to hear this. He realized terrible mistake he was making. His father had looked after Velan very well. Now, he was old and he was failing in his duties. He apologized to his father and became a totally different person. From that day, Velan treated his father with great respect. He gave up drinking too. His son taught him a life lesson.
You should honor your parents at all times. It is your noble duty. It brings you their blessings and good wishes.
