The horse with the bell...

As a young child, I used to enjoy one particular story which mother used to tell quite often – probably to convey the message the story had and leave an indelible impression on my young mind.

So, I too followed that example and told this story to my children quite a number of times. Some stories have to be passed on as legacy to strengthen the moral fabric. The story goes like this. “There was a blind horse, whose owner had chosen not to have him put to sleep, instead took care of him and allowed him to be in his herd.

And to help the blind horse, the owner thoughtfully attached a bell to one of his young horse’s halter so that it lets the blind horse know where the other horse is, so he can follow. The horse with the bell was always checking on the blind horse, and the blind horse would listen for the bell and then slowly walk to where the other horse was, trusting that he will not be led astray.

When the horse with the bell returned to the shelter of the barn each evening, it stopped occasionally and looked back, making sure the blind friend wasn’t too far behind to hear the bell.

Just like the owner of these two horses, God does not throw us away just because we are not perfect or because we have problems or challenges! He watches over us and even brings others into our lives to help us when we are in need...

So saying, my mother used to add: “Take the help Providence provides you when in need with gratitude and be the horse with the bell, helping the less fortunate ones when they are in need”! And I am always thankful that I heard this story as a young child from my mother which left a lasting impression on my mind and gave me an understanding of life and its working.

Children need the presence of their parents, not their presents. But if parents can present children with these kind of stories, it will help children make their presence felt in society in a very positive way.

Stories told by parents play a very important role in moulding young children’s hearts and minds.