Narada’s Lesson in Devotion

Once, Narada, filled with pride, believed he was Lord Vishnu's greatest devotee, chanting Vishnu's name constantly. Curious to affirm his devotion’s superiority, he visited Vishnu and questioned if anyone could surpass him. Vishnu, sensing Narada's pride, suggested a visit to Earth to meet His true devotee.

Disguised as a farmer, Vishnu led Narada to a humble farmer's home. The farmer’s family, despite their meagre provisions, graciously fed Narada and Vishnu, even sacrificing their meal. The farmer’s brief, heartfelt prayer, "Hari Om," struck Narada as inadequate, given his constant recitations. However, Vishnu remained silent, waiting to reveal the deeper lesson.

The next day, Vishnu gave Narada a grail (cup) filled to the brim with oil and tasked him with carrying it up a hill without spilling a drop. Narada completed the task with complete focus but realized he hadn’t remembered Vishnu once along the way. Vishnu then explained that the farmer, like Narada with the grail, balanced his responsibilities with devotion, remembering the Lord whenever he could despite life's demands.

Humbled, Narada understood that true devotion lies not in quantity, but in the quality of one’s connection with the Divine amidst life’s trials. He bowed to Vishnu, acknowledging his error.