Atheism - Going with the flow of culture

 

Once upon a time, in a small town in southern India, there lived a man named Meenakshisundaram. He was a young and ambitious individual who believed in the power of hard work and determination. His father, on the other hand, was a staunch atheist who didn't believe in religious rituals and ceremonies. However, despite their contrasting beliefs, Meenakshisundaram's father always made an exception when it came to family outings and temple visits.

Meenakshisundaram's father would often take the entire family on trips to hill station temples, where they would participate in various religious ceremonies and pujas. He would immerse himself in the rituals, chanting prayers and seeking blessings from the deities. Meenakshisundaram would watch his father's unwavering devotion, yet he couldn't help but notice a peculiar habit his father had.

Once they stepped out of the temple, Meenakshisundaram's father would wipe his head vigorously with his towel, as if trying to wash away any remnants of his religious fervor. It was a puzzling sight for young Meenakshisundaram, and he couldn't fathom why his father would engage in something he didn't truly believe in.

As Meenakshisundaram grew older, he began to question his father about his contradictory behavior. One day, after returning from a temple visit, Meenakshisundaram mustered the courage to ask his father about the towel-wiping ritual.

"Dad," he said, "I've noticed that after every temple visit, you wipe your head with your towel. Why do you do that?"

Meenakshisundaram's father smiled and sat down next to him. He patted his son's back affectionately before answering, "My dear son, there is a term called 'going with the flow.' While I may not entirely believe in the religious practices, I do believe in the power of unity and family bonds. These temple visits are not just about appeasing the gods; they are about spending quality time together as a family."

He continued, "I wipe my head with the towel as a symbolic gesture. It represents letting go of any lingering doubts or worries and returning to the real world, where hard work and determination are the driving forces. Just like the towel wipes away the sweat from my forehead, I believe that hard work is the only thing that can truly sustain and provide for us."

Meenakshisundaram listened intently, realizing the wisdom in his father's words. He began to understand that his father's actions were not contradictory, but rather a reflection of his pragmatic approach to life. While he may not put blind faith in rituals, he recognized the importance of embracing family traditions and creating cherished memories.

From that day forward, Meenakshisundaram adopted his father's philosophy. He worked diligently, pouring his heart and soul into his studies and career. He understood that while rituals and prayers have their place, it is ultimately hard work that paves the way to success.

As the years went by, Meenakshisundaram achieved great things in his life. He became a successful professional, admired by many for his dedication and perseverance. He also passed on his father's teachings to his own children, emphasizing the value of hard work and the significance of family bonds.

Meenakshisundaram's journey taught him that life is a delicate balance between traditions and practicality. It is possible to respect and participate in rituals while also recognizing the importance of personal effort and determination. And in the end, it is the combination of these elements that brings true fulfillment and prosperity.