I consider myself incredibly fortunate to have embarked on the spiritual path at the tender age of 12, when most children my age were busy navigating the challenges of adolescence. Meditation became my anchor early on, and meeting Gurudev Sri Sri Ravi Shankar ji had a profound impact on my life. Little did I know that one simple gift from Him would continue to shape my journey and bring success in ways beyond my imagination.
It was during my high school years, around the time of my 10th-grade board exams, that I had a special encounter with Gurudev. Each time He visited Delhi, I felt an irresistible urge to meet Him. It was an overwhelming desire, one that overtook all other thoughts. So, when a group of my fellow 10th-graders decided to go to the airport to seek Gurudev’s blessings on the eve of our exams, I didn’t hesitate to join them. However, unlike my peers who were eager to ask for blessings to excel in the exams, I didn’t feel the need to ask for anything specific. I was content just being in His presence, knowing that nothing else mattered.
We were a lively bunch that day—fifteen-year-olds, full of energy, all talking at once and eagerly trying to capture Gurudev’s attention. The atmosphere at the airport was buzzing with excitement. Amidst the chatter and enthusiasm, Gurudev, with His ever-serene demeanor, pulled out a simple wooden pencil from His hand. With a playful smile, He asked, “Who wants this pencil?”
Naturally, there was a surge of excitement among my friends. Everyone rushed forward, each hoping to receive this prized possession from the Master. I, however, stood back, lost in the moment, my eyes fixed solely on Gurudev. It was as if I was in my own world, unaware of the commotion unfolding around me.
Then, something truly surreal happened.
Gurudev’s gaze met mine, and in that instant, it felt like time had stopped. He leaned forward and, amidst all the clamor, He extended His hand towards me, offering the pencil. My hand instinctively opened, and He placed the pencil gently in it. For a brief moment, I felt as though the world around me had disappeared, and I was left standing in awe of what had just transpired.
I had not sought special blessings for the exams, nor had I been clamoring for the gift. Yet, here I was, holding in my hand what felt like the most sacred gift from the Master. Gurudev gave me His all-knowing smile, and in that simple gesture, He taught me a profound lesson: When one is truly content, all desires are fulfilled even before they arise.
Needless to say, I aced my 10th-grade board exams and every school exam thereafter. I went on to graduate with distinction in both my bachelor’s and master’s programs, receiving the highest academic honors from the universities I attended. But beyond academic success, the wooden pencil symbolized something far greater—a metaphorical reminder of the ultimate writer of my destiny.
To this day, that wooden pencil continues to serve as a powerful symbol in my life. It represents the grace, love, and ever-flowing blessings of the Master. I carry it with me as a reminder that the true force shaping my destiny is none other than Gurudev’s boundless love.
For the countless gifts He has bestowed upon me, both seen and unseen, I am eternally grateful.
By Rochi Khemka
