“For loved ones”
Once, King Bhoj hosted a public feast, where people enjoyed various sweets and dishes, leaving them satisfied. The king, proud of his generosity, encountered a woodcutter in the evening carrying a bundle of wood at the city gate. The woodcutter was asked, ‘Didn’t you know that King Bhoj hosted a feast today? If you knew, you wouldn’t have to work.’ The woodcutter replied, ‘Yes, I knew. But what does a woodcutter gain from King Bhoj’s public feast, compared to earning the bread through hard work? The joy of earning a livelihood with effort and sweat brings more satisfaction than free meals.’
The woodcutter’s perspective is commendable. People often seen at temples or charity events, relying on others for alms or temple offerings, have become so dependent that they can’t engage in any form of labor. Despite receiving some food while sitting idle, they seem deeply disappointed and lead a purposeless life.
Neglect of labor is increasing in many people today, causing various imbalances and issues. Disregard for labor leads to poverty and malnutrition. It’s true that labor is the foundation of any earning and production. In a society where there is no interest in labor, how will prosperity increase? Lack of labor leads to an imbalanced physical system, causing health issues. In the absence of labor, a person is disconnected from the natural joy, happiness, and mental peace of life. Poverty and destitution result from not engaging in labor in a sufficient and proper manner.
It’s a natural law that things not used for utility are soon destroyed. Our body is designed for labor. Long limbs, intellect, and various organs are meant for some kind of work. When not utilized for others’ dependence, the body becomes obligated to be destroyed, just like a machine left idle rusts away. Not working is a disservice to oneself and society. Labor keeps the body active. Therefore, a hardworking person always remains healthy and content.