An important life lesson
Ever got disappointed when you didn't get what you wanted? This happened with Dr APJ Abdul Kalam, the Missile Man of India, when he failed to qualify for the Air Force Selection Board interview.
Here's the story-
In 1958, Abdul Kalam went to Dehra Dun for his interview at Air Force Selection Board. As he puts in his autobiography, the emphasis was more on "personality" than on intelligence at the Selection Board. They were looking for physical fitness. He was overwrought. And you know what, in the batch of 25 examinees, 8 got selected, and he has finished as 9th! He was deeply disappointed. He has missed the mammoth opportunity in just one place!
He then proceeded to Rishikesh and took a bath in the holy Ganges. In an ashram situated way up the hill, he met Swami Sivananda - a man who looked like Buddha as described by him.
He told Swamiji about his unsuccessful attempt to join IAF and missing the opportunity for realising his long-cherished dream of flying.
"Accept your destiny and go ahead with your life. You are not destined to become an Air Force pilot. What you are destined to become is not revealed now, but it is predetermined. Forget this failure, as it was essential to lead you to your destined path. Search, instead, for the true purpose of your existence. Become one with yourself, my son! Surrender yourself to the wish of God," Swamiji consoled.
If he had joined IAF, do you think he could have become the 'Missile Man of India', as we know him today? Or ISRO would have succeeded in launching the first rocket without his contribution?
This International Students day, let's learn this vital life lesson through Mr Kalam's journey and let him know that the brave students of his country don't get disappointed on not being the topper or not being able to clear an entrance exam. Let's pay him tribute on his birth anniversary by promising ourselves to move forward despite failures. Let's make him proud.
FAITH AND PATIENCE, and you got it.
Written By-
Kirti Rathod ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------